209 - Upki Girl

< I Swear I Didn't Sleep (Final Content Addition) > ‘If, by any chance, we win first place, it might be better to just forfeit.’ This was a random thought Hongi had when she advanced to the finals of the Girl Crush competition. Although Hongi had attracted attention with her rap skills and above-average looks, everyone knew that, based on skill and recognition in the hip-hop scene, it was right for Choi Sika to win. If Hongi had pulled off an unexpected victory, controversy would have been inevitable unless there was an obvious difference in skill for all to see. It was a choice between earning the honor and controversy of a surprise victory or cleanly finishing as the expected runner-up. From Hongi's perspective, having reached the finals was already a sufficient achievement, so choosing the latter was better. Of course, forfeiting after winning is a far-fetched hypothesis, but if we had the choice, being the runner-up would have been advantageous in many ways. In reality, the event fees, which are a measure of popularity, were similar for both winner Choi Sika and runner-up Hongi, earning them the title of "Crowned Without a Crown." The paradoxically positive image of “It was a good fight, despite the loss” was instilled. My thoughts, as I looked at Lip Balm, were similar. I believe Lip Balm has already showcased beyond their limits by getting this far. Even they admitted that teaming up with Up Girl was like being revived with a defibrillator and CPR—a life extension powered by civilization. While skill cannot be reduced to mere numbers — [Info Window: ????] — from an objective and comprehensive standpoint, the majority might think it's better for GIG to advance than Lip Balm. What would happen if, despite this situation, Lip Balm advanced to the next round with all 20 victory points? First and foremost, the fandoms of the other teams, excluding Up Girl and Lip Balm's fandoms, would definitely view it unfavorably. Especially GIG's fandom would be enraged, pouring out all sorts of negative comments toward Lip Balm. Of course, if Lip Balm continued to do well after today and kept rising, the controversy would quickly die down, but looking at the remaining teams' levels, that seems unlikely. Up Girl, May Queens, Teenagers, Love One, Your Girl, Pink Flavored Candy. All six teams have solid fandoms with the trifecta of vocal ability, dance, and looks. Lip Balm, wedged between them, would most likely face elimination and, if that happens, would face all kinds of ridicule and criticism. “Why did you let them advance when it’s clear they would be eliminated in a week?” Up Girl might also get criticized. As Lip Balm has no solid fandom or agency backing, expecting an effective shield or media play is difficult. But what if Lip Balm rejected the 20 points and gave the advancement to GIG? Lip Balm would certainly take the focus and issue of this cycle, gracefully exiting with the acknowledgment of their limits at the peak of their applause. The production team has no reason to stop this, as it’s better for GIG to advance than Lip Balm, whose fandom is weak. Since Lip Balm has already gained all they could in terms of marginal utility, and the viewership ratings and buzz are satisfactory, they will likely receive positive articles on their generous virtue and an emotional edit to warmly wrap things up. Imagine the public image. So far, the image of Lip Balm on the Ripple Girl has been sexy, tough, and ambitious for victory. Aside from being sexy, those are somewhat negative notions, but this would be a great turning point to reverse that instantly. Is it easy for a group of mature sisters in a girl group to give up in an audition program branded as the ‘last chance’? Has there even been such a case before? While anyone can think, 'Giving way to another team will improve their image,' the public knows it’s not an easy decision to act on. A celebrity’s livelihood ultimately depends on their image. Ambition isn’t inherently bad, but in the eyes of the public, nothing can beat the positive image of yielding, especially if shown at a critical moment by someone not expected to behave that way. The effect would be amplified. “Of course, the choice belongs to the Lip Balm members, but if I were the producer, this is the kind of image-making I’d pursue. It may not yield the full effects I envision, but it definitely wouldn't be a losing trade for Lip Balm.” Hearing my bold proposal, the Lip Balm members remained silent, pondering or glancing at each other, showing signs of consideration rather than outright rejection. They were probably mulling over the pros and cons I laid out in their own ways. After a moment, leader Tina asked the elder Haeun. “What do you think, unnie?” “Well... it’s not wrong. If we advance to the next round, we’ll likely earn more insults than praise.” I clarified that part more distinctly. “There won’t be any controversy over today’s performance. Based solely on today, we deserved to advance. You all did great.” “Yes, I understand. If we can secure advancement in the next round on our own, it wouldn’t matter, but if not, there would be severe backlash, right?” “Frankly speaking, it’s very likely.” “I’m voting in favor of Director Myuno’s opinion.” Once Haeun clearly stated her thoughts, the youngest, Gaon, followed suit. “Yeah, since it's obvious we'll be eliminated in the next round anyway, it's better to end things beautifully. Honestly, we really delivered a legendary performance today, didn't we? That's enough for me.” It seems everyone is leaning towards accepting my proposal. Tina asks. “Have you talked this over with the Up Girl members as well?” "No, I'm not going to tell them." "Why not?" "Because it's more fun if they don't know beforehand. I figure if we just let the production team know, and then drop the bomb on stage, we'll get genuine reactions." "Oh, that sounds exciting!" "Our show trending at number one once it's broadcast? That's the goal, haha." I'm not exactly sure why I got involved in this. It might be because people around me keep calling me the father or producer of Up Girl, which sparked a bit of ambition in me. The one thing I know for sure is that I wish the best for Lip Balm, and I had no other intentions. That's probably why Lip Balm agreed to it. Tina and I went to see PD Kim Gyucheol to explain the situation. The production team had no reason to dislike this plot twist; it would surely enhance the program's buzz. Although he didn't express outright enthusiasm in front of Tina, the overall response was that it was a pretty good idea. Lip Balm's dedicated writer crafted the remarks on the spot, and to maintain the authenticity of the situation, it was kept a secret from even the MC and judges as recording continued. “So, we, Up Girl, have decided to give all 20 of today's victory points to Lip Balm.” As Yona finished her lines as planned, Tina interrupted with her refusal, turning heads. *** ― ...Of course, it wouldn't be honest to say I don't have any desire to win. However, we think it's only right for GIG to advance rather than us. We are satisfied with having delivered a great performance with Up Girl, and that's enough for us. ―Let's give a round of applause to Lip Balm once more! . . [Real-Time Trending Searches] 1. Lip Balm 2. Replay Girl 3. GIG 4. Lee Myung-bak 5. The Sorrows of Young Werther . . <Replay Girl ‘Lip Balm’ Delivers a Legendary Performance and Bows Out Beautifully...> <Bold Exit from the Tough Sisters, "GIG, You Go to the Top 7"> <Masterstroke or Misstep? The Gains and Losses from Lip Balm’s Forfeiture> ―Agung: As a GIG fan, thank you so much to Lip Balm sistersㅠㅠ ―WindDingZilu: What a complete twistㅋㅋㅋㅋ ―INYsFree: Honestly, didn't like Lip Balm before, but now I really do ―Kyarureureung: When Tina refused the points, Up Girl’s reactions were pricelessㅋㅋㅋㅋ What’s with these sisters? ―Hyejiniyam: Love Lip Balm! ―crow326: A little disappointing as a viewer supporting Lip Balm. Thought their potential was just starting to bloomㅠㅠ ―Staroftorment: Lip Balm did well, but frankly, it was thanks to Up Girl. Lip Balm's journey would've ended in the next round anyway, I think. ―JSayings: ♡Sexy Night Lip Balm♡ You were so beautiful today! Only walk the flower path from now on! ―Trump.: Done becoming a Lip fan^^ ―Arrenier: Not an icon of ambition, but an icon of sacrifice... ―TARDIS: Go for the Up Girl and Lip Balm unit activities!!! ―Tae Kim: Clearly, there are more gains than lossesㅋㅋ I don't think Lip Balm forfeited for GIG's sake. They made a smart choice based on what's advantageous to them. You can really tell their image improved compared to last week’s comments. ―kyh0830: Sexy Night Lip Balm! It's easy to say but far from an easy decision. Deep support for your courage and consideration. Haeun, Tina, Gaon, Jiseon, fighting~!!!!^^ The reactions on the Replay Girl's message board on the broadcast day were exactly as I had anticipated. As I watched public opinion unfold as expected, it left me with a strange feeling. Deciding without relying on the info windows and auras made the sense of accomplishment even greater. *** "It looks like we should start packing up soon." Our new accommodation has been decided. Originally, we were planning to move into an apartment, but a newly-constructed villa just 20 seconds away from the Hum Humm Office came up with ideal terms, so we decided on it instead. It's only been less than a month since moving into the separate house, but soon, we'll be living under one roof with the kids again. At least with the office and accommodation being so close together, it won't raise any suspicion if I'm popping in and out frequently. "Even though it's a packing service, it's better to box up your personal belongings separately." Following Yona's suggestion, we set aside a day for each person to sort their things. Most of it consisted of gifts and letters from fans. Needless to say, fan gifts must be well cared for. I recalled how Love Melody caused an uproar during a move by discarding fan letters and how many celebrities faced trouble for regifting fan presents. Remembering this, I advised the kids organizing their belongings. "You know you can't throw away things fans gave you, right?" "Uhuh? Why would I throw away things fans gave me?" "Just in case, by accident. Especially you, Ssi-ba." "No, no. Not even a single bean." Following Ssi-ba, Seowon displayed an intense attachment to a fan's gifts, making a chilling comment. “When I die and get cremated, I want them to burn the fan letters and gifts with me. And Mr. Director too.” “... Won't I die before you?” “They say there's no order to go in. So if I die first, Mr. Director, you have to follow me.” “Are you serious?” “Yes. Not just you, I wish everyone would just die with me. I can't stand the thought of you all laughing and living without me in this world.” Hongi, looking incredulous, asked again. "If I die first, you'll follow, right?" "Yeah. I'll follow." "This is... terrifying yet somehow touching." "But Mr. Director. Don’t we have our stuff in the separate house too?" "Oh, I moved it with Jang-woo." "Where is it?" "In the small room on the second floor." Seowon, possibly remembering what she needed, rushed up to the second floor. And shortly after, she came bolting down to the first floor, exclaiming, "OMG, OMG!" with the brightest smile on her face. “Haha, Yona, what’s this?” “Huh?” “Did you know Ju-young from the human barricade?” I was taken aback! Riya was startled too! Yonna jumped slightly! Seowon was holding a Polaroid photo of Yona and Ju-young together. Hongi and Ssi-ba, who were close by, checked out the photo and were equally shocked. “Squeal! It’s really Ju-young!” “No way. This is huge.” “Yonna, did you date Ju-young?” Ssi-ba, always direct, asked bluntly, and Yona shrugged her shoulders and replied dryly. “Date? Do you want me to get kicked out as a trainee for meeting someone?” “Then what’s this? Isn’t it strange that Ju-young’s kissing your cheek if you weren’t dating?” “Yeah, that is weirder.” “Yonna’s Yonna alright. World-class hookups… So jealous…” “Hehe, I told you we weren’t dating. We were just close friends.” Strong deflection as expected. Yona, like a slippery snake, skillfully dodged Ssi-ba, Seowon, and Hongi’s rapid-fire questions with a shoulder roll. However, Seowon’s heavy body blow landed its mark, causing Yona to falter. “You didn’t sleep with him, did you?” “Pfft!” Wow, even Yona makes a sound like that. “What, you did?” “Excuse me?” “Did you sleep with him?” “What do you mean, sleep?” Yona's previously solid defense noticeably weakened. Seizing the opportunity, Ssi-ba and Hongi pressed on. “Did you?” “Did you?” “What’s with you all? No, I didn’t!” “Aww, your ears are getting red. You totally did.” “What on earth are you all talking about! I’m telling you, I didn’t!” “What does a strong denial mean?” Only Riya and I were observing from the sidelines like spectators at a distant fire. As if suddenly aware, Riya sidled up to me, giggling quietly. “Yonna unnie’s being ripped apart by the never-dated squad. This is pure entertainment.” “I know, it’s hilarious seeing them like this when they’ve never dated anyone.” “It’s a good time for them. So many curiosities.” “Stop talking like such an old soul.” “Well, compared to your experience, I'm more mature than Stupido.” Ouch! “What do you mean by my experience? Stop saying weird things.” “Stupido, do you think Yonna slept with that Ju-young character or not?” “How would I know? But knowing Yona’s personality, if they did, she would’ve admitted it by now. She’s serious enough that it seems like they really didn’t... Wait, why am I even talking about this with you?” “Stupido is the cutest when he’s shy. High five.” “Get out of here.” The never-dated trio were tenaciously holding onto Yona like ants in the rain. After continuously denying it, Yona suddenly stopped moving, straightening her back. Taking a deep breath, she clenched her teeth as if issuing her final warning. “Why don’t we just go practice instead of packing? Everyone seems brimming with energy.” “Eek! Let’s pack.” “Yeah, if the leader says nothing happened, nothing happened. We were just kidding.” “Sorry, Yona. If it upset you, I apologize. Please forgive me.” “Eunbit, hand over the photo.” “Yes, of course!” “Forget it. Never mind.” “What do you want us to do?” “Take it outside and burn it.” “Hail Yondria!” Yona’s charisma was formidable. The never-dated trio scattered in three different directions like ants hit by raindrops. Yona's calm gaze shifted to Riya and me, who remained across the room. Riya, preemptively nervous, raised a gentle hand. “Yonna, Ally didn’t say anything.” “Yeah. Good girl.” “I didn’t say anything either.” “Yes, you too, Director, are good. Riya, are you done packing?” “No. Ally doesn’t know how to do such things...” “Figured. You were likely just on your phone, right?” “Stupido said he’d do it for me.” “What? I never said that.” “Now you did. Do it. Please.” “What the...” “Yeah, Riya, you’re hopeless at packing. Work on some practice with unnie. I’ll finish up here.” “Eek! Packing is fun! I’m coming right now!” Even Riya was swiftly sent down to the basement by Yona. Glancing at me briefly, Yona left a curt remark as she left. “I already told you, I didn’t.” Who said anything otherwise... Smoke rose from the terrace, where Eunbit was hunched in a primitive pose, burning the photo. With it, memories of Yona’s past drifted away in the smoke. Whether they did or didn’t, does it matter? Let it go, and let’s move on to tomorrow. From a human barricade to Billboard, Up Girl and Stupido to a new place. < I Swear I Didn't Sleep (Final Content Addition) > End