Chapter 34: Alright

ttling on Ji Kyeong-won. She smiled and extended her hand in a gesture of farewell, then nodded lightly to the others before exiting the waiting room.Yellow Meiying followed closely behind, before wal..."What is it"

Looking at the jewelry box in his hand, Pei Joo-hyeon blinked curiously while quickly taking it over. After glancing at Ji Seong-won, she smiled and opened the box directly.

A pair of crystal-studded earrings lay quietly in the box. Shaped like a sunflower, the diamond center was surrounded by petals crafted from crystals and white gold. Though small, with a diameter of less than half a centimeter, they were incredibly finely made. Every detail was polished to a smooth, translucent finish, reflecting the interior lighting with shimmering silver and color-changing brilliance.

Even the most beautiful and dazzling jewelry pales in comparison to the radiance of a woman's smile when she holds it.

Pei Zhuhyun was taken aback for a moment, her eyes widening slightly. After a few seconds of contemplative silence, a playful smile tugged at the corners of her lips, spreading like ripples of joy across her face. Her eyes then sparkled with two pinpoints of light, bringing a vibrant energy to her entire being.

"Try it" came Ji-sung's voice in her ear. Bae Joo-hyun obediently used her hand to gently take out the earring. As she was about to put it on, she suddenly stopped, turned her head and blinked at him: "Can you help me put it on"

"Put it on yourself!"

Chi Jingyuan ignored the other person's seductive gaze, curled his lips and sat back in the driver's seat, looking at the road ahead, waving his hand as if completely uninterested.

"...."

Seeing his appearance, Bae Joo-hyun turned away with a hint of disappointment. She glanced at the earring in her hand for a moment, as if suddenly remembering something, and then turned back to tentatively ask, "You wouldn't... be unable to wear it, would you"

Upon hearing this, Chi Jingyuan couldn't help but open his mouth in surprise. He quickly averted his gaze and stared straight ahead, acting as if he hadn't heard a word.

He's never actually worn earrings.

He has disliked earrings and any kind of pierced jewelry since he was very young. Even after debuting as an idol, this hasn't changed. The company tried persuading him several times at first, but after repeated failures, they stopped bringing it up altogether. To this day, he still doesn't have his ears pierced.

"Really Kekeke…"

Clearly seeing through Chi Jingyuan's pretense, a sly yet joyous smile spread across his face without any hesitation. Pei Zhuxuan seemed to have discovered some great secret as she laughed at him incessantly, simultaneously picking up her ear stud and skillfully putting it in her ear. Then, with a purpose, she searched around, finally pulling down the visor of her sunglasses at Chi Jingyuan's suggestive glance. She tilted her face back and forth against the mirror, looking intently.

"Very pretty... Thank you."

After a while, she reluctantly put the mirror away. Pei Joo-hyeon gently caressed her left earlobe and, with a slightly subdued smile, looked at Ji Kyeong-won with sparkling eyes and thanked him.

"This is just cheap stuff from a street stall, bought on a whim. Be careful, it might bleed color." Chi Jingyuan didn't seem to notice the other person's emotional turmoil, just twitched his mouth and mumbled a few random words.

"..."

Pei Zhuhyun didn't believe it, and she gave him a withering look. Before she could say anything else, she suddenly remembered something and hurriedly said, "By the way, I can't be out for too long. I have to get up very early tomorrow morning to go to Busan for a signing event. Besides, my manager is probably coming back soon... I told Seqi to cover for me saying I was going to the convenience store...

Unlike Ji-won, who can come and go from the dorm whenever he pleases, Pei Joo-hyuk needs to say hello before leaving. Red Velvet is still under very strict management. With their recent comeback being a success and their popularity skyrocketing, their schedules are packed every day. They haven't had much private time these days. This time they snuck out with an excuse.

"... "

"

Ji Jingyuan nodded to show he understood, pointed at the seat belt and told Pei Zhuxuan to fasten it before starting the car: "Which nearby convenience store"

If you've made an excuse, then you definitely need to buy something.

"

Go forward a little bit, and you'll get there... Here...

"

Pei Joo-hyeon stood up from the passenger seat, her posture straight as she commanded Ji Seong-won with familiarity.

In a short while, she pointed ahead and said in a crisp voice, "Just stop at this intersection. Don't drive past that way because there are often a lot of people there, and your car might be recognized."

Saying that, she unbuckled her seatbelt, quickly put on the Donald Duck baseball cap and mask, gave a wave over her shoulder, then opened the door and dashed out.

Chi Jingyuan looked at her back and her shaking little short legs, smacked his lips and shook his head.

He held one hand on the steering wheel, tapping his finger lightly. He hadn't mentioned it before, but he actually thought that when Bae Joo-hyun put on her earrings and tied up her hair in gold, she looked really good.

It's a pity, no one is perfect, heaven always tries to be fair.

After Pei Zhuhyun left, the car fell silent all of a sudden. One could only occasionally hear the faint sound of engines from afar. At the same time, the light fragrance that had just filled the car seemed to diminish as well.

After waiting for about ten minutes, Pei Joo-Hyuk's figure reappeared within the car window's field of vision. She was carrying a plastic bag and her running movements were strange, like a little top, as she ran towards here. After opening the car door and sitting down, she took off her mask and gasped for breath before closing the door.

"Why are you running so fast"

Seeing a slight sheen of sweat on her forehead, Chi Jingyuan said helplessly.

"......"

Let me know if you have any other text you'd like me to translate!

But when Pei Zhuxuan heard this, she just smiled and didn't reply. She sat there for a moment, catching her breath, and after calming down, she gently picked up the plastic bag.

"What did I buy"

She rummaged through her bag, speaking in a light and teasing tone, keeping the other person in suspense. When she found it, she paused for a second, then suddenly and dramatically pulled it out of the bag with a flourish, holding it up like a treasure, and childishly accompanied it with a sound: "jiangjiang".

Chi Jingyuan looked over and immediately burst into laughter, clapping his hands along with it.

A bag of chocolate bars, the one endorsed by Lai Kuanlin and EXO.

It was also the same midnight by the river bank, the dish that the two of them shared together back then.

With a ‘rip’, the package was opened. Park Jihyun proactively offered one to Kim Kyeongwon, who accepted it. She then took out one herself and started eating it in small bites. Today, feeling exceptionally good, she began sharing her experiences from the past two days as she munched on the snack.

"Jia, yesterday and today should be the happiest days since my debut, you know Yesterday at the signing event, the fans under the stage were singing birthday songs for me. At that time, I really felt like I was floating, couldn't hold back my tears... I really couldn't help it..."

"I saw it."

Chi Jingyuan started the car and drove to where they had their previous meeting, nodding in understanding.

However, she should be happy. Her comeback was a success, reversing the previous situation. She has gained a large number of fans due to her outstanding qualities and appearance. Being serenaded with birthday songs by the entire audience is something that all idols would find unforgettable.

Adding to the excitement, today's victory also coincided with her birthday, and she received her desired birthday present. All things considered, it's understandable that she is feeling extremely joyful and thrilled. No wonder she has become a bit more talkative than usual, shedding her previous gentleness and calmness like a child.

How much she was scolded, how heartbroken she was. Now that the sun is rising and the warmth reaches her body, it's that kind of invigorating feeling.

"You watched the fancams, huh... They really are... Oh, by the way, our fans hung a banner outside the signing venue. What do you think it says"

What

"Kekeke... writing 'Daughter of Daegu,' hahaha, I'm a little embarrassed even seeing it."

Yesterday my mom and my sister came to see me perform. We saw each other backstage.

"Haven't we had a meal together"

"No, it was a little rushed, but she brought me some things."

"... "

"

The joy, emotion, and excitement brimming in Pyo Ji-hye's heart these past few days have been expressed through cheerful words and moving smiles. Meanwhile, Park Kyung-won played the perfect supportive role, quickly driving the car back to its original spot.

Looking at the table, she realized it was getting late. She had been out for half an hour already. Pei Zhuxuan's smile faded slightly. After thinking for a moment, she took out her phone and suggested, "Let's listen to a song Once it's over, I should head back. If it gets too late, Hyeonu-na might give me a scolding."

"What would you like to hear"

Chi Jingyuan nodded, glanced at her, and then took out his phone to open the music app: "I have an unreleased version of 'Spring Day' here. Want to listen"

"Spring Day, your new title track... Don't feel like listening to it now."

"Fine, I'll let you go.

"

First, she asked a question. Pei Zhuhyun lightly wrinkled her nose and shook her head while speaking, her fingers quickly swiping across the screen. Soon, an incredibly familiar prelude entered both of their ears.

Let it be

Chi Jingyuan couldn't help but laugh out loud. He had actually anticipated this.

As soon as the prelude ended, it seemed that Bae Joo-hyeon was not satisfied. After thinking for a moment, she took out another pair of headphones and plugged them into her phone. The music stopped abruptly. Then, she proactively held one side of the earphones and put it in Ji-yeong's ear, while taking the other side herself.

When her hand and earlobe collided, there was a slight coolness. When Ji Jingyuan turned his head to look, he happened to meet Pei Zhuxuan's gaze as well. The two looked at each other for a moment, both silently understanding and flashing a knowing smile. Then, their heads turned back in sync; one looking out the car window, the other looking down at their own hand.

After the clouds dispersed, a dazzling light shone.

"The exam is over now."

"Shine upon me brightly."

While munching on a chocolate bar, they quietly listened to the song, one they both knew they'd heard countless times before.

A pleasant and warm atmosphere filled the entire car, punctuated by a hint of seductive ambiguity.

The three-minute song ended quickly. Although they were both enjoying the atmosphere, neither of them acted overly sentimental. After a simple farewell,

Pei Zhuxuan opened the door and prepared to leave.

Just as she opened the door, she seemed to suddenly remember something. She turned around in her chair and smiled, her dark eyes sparkling: "By the way, are you familiar with Bae Suzy from IU"

The topic shifted abruptly, without any buildup, and then IU directly brought up Tzuyu's name.

He just paused for a moment after hearing that, but he wasn't really surprised. He didn't ask her why she asked that question either. Instead, he simply nodded casually: "Mm."

Her expression remained unchanged, and she added a modifier to her previous statement, continuing, "Very familiar"

There's a very strong implication here. It seems like Ji-won understood what she wanted to ask. He turned his head and looked at Joo-hyuk without concealing anything: "I guess so...but we haven't been in touch much lately."

"... Need me to introduce you"

At those words, Bae Joo-hyun blinked and ran a hand through the golden hair falling on her right temple, gently tucking it behind her ear to reveal a striking sunflower earring that caught the light. The earring glittered, and Bae Joo-hyun’s lips curled into a gentle smile, revealing a hint of determination in its warmth.

"Sounds good!"

…………

"Oh my, you're back."

"Mm." Pei Joo-hyeon had just entered the dorm and started changing her shoes when she was greeted by Kang Se-bi, who was sitting on the sofa. She nodded and glanced at the room to the left before softly asking, "Has Hye-young unnie come back yet"

Not yet.

"Whew…" Pei Joo-hyeon let out a breath of relief. Although the members had helped cover for her and made excuses, their manager wasn't stupid. Less trouble was always better.

Jiang Seqi watched as Captain Oni changed her shoes and ran straight to the restroom. She didn't know what she was thinking, puckering her lips and blinking.

Pei Zhuhyun didn't go straight back to her room. Instead, she went straight to the bathroom and washed her face first. Before entering, she took the earring that she had specifically removed from her ear and examined it in her palm for a while before putting it back in the jewelry box.

To prevent her fellow members from seeing the rather conspicuous jewelry, she took it off before entering.

Although she made up an excuse, Pei Zhuxuan knew deep down that people like Kang Seulgi and Son Seungwan probably knew what she was really doing. After all, it was her birthday today.

Even so, she was still a little reluctant for her ear studs to be noticed as something she had just received tonight, lest it make things more obvious.

After all, the group is just starting to gain momentum now. Whether it's Bae Joo-hyun or members like Kang Se-qi, they really don't want anyone in the team to start dating right now, even if it's not exposed or discovered by the company. It would still be irresponsible, both for themselves and for the group.

It's okay to joke around or act a bit closer sometimes, but she doesn't want the members to actually misunderstand.

This is currently the best app for listening to books. It integrates 4 major voice synthesis engines with over 100 sound options and supports offline reading source switching. huanyuanapp source switching app.

And she and Chi Jingyuan are definitely not that kind of relationship, at least not now.

Staring at her own plain face in the mirror, Bae Joo-hyun pursed her lips and shook her slightly damp fringe. A tinge of regret welled up within her, making her think that maybe her straightforward implication when she got out of the car was a bit impulsive.

But these problems have been weighing on her mind for a long time. After hearing them from someone else, they just kept swirling around in her head, whether they were true or not, she still wanted to get confirmation.

Although you might not be happy about it now, at least you don't have to worry about it so much anymore.

Days stretched ahead, and Pei Zhuxuan pressed the jumbled emotions down in her heart. She took a deep breath, the corners of her lips involuntarily lifting in a significant curve. She couldn't help but reach out and gently touch the piercing on her right earlobe.

This short half hour tonight wasn't the last goodbye, and she was truly happy.

This is a different kind of joy compared to being celebrated by fans or getting your first number one win on the music charts.

Looking at herself in the mirror, Bae Joo-hyun blinked her eyes and looked at herself. After a moment, she let out a giggle and wiped her face with a towel before quickly walking out.

…………

The next day at noon, JYP Entertainment released the sound source of its group ISSA's third mini album "LORS" and the music video for the title track "ONLY YOU".

As a competitor to EXO during the same comeback period, and also as a group with the disliked Suzy Bae, ALICE members are paying close attention to ISA's performance this time. They constantly leave negative comments online, or curse them to flop and get quickly removed from the charts, experiencing a disastrous performance.

It's a pity that IssA disappointed the fans, but after the audio source was released, she exploded and achieved very good results. In the entire album chart rankings, the title song "onlyyou" directly occupied the top spots on major music charts in a short period of time, with listening volume continuously increasing, and the comments below are also very positive.

"My Neighbor is EXO" mainly tells the story of a girl named Ji Eun-Hee, who has never been in love. After discovering that EXO has become her neighbor, a series of interesting and touching stories unfold... "

As the most successful actor in transforming from xiao to adult roles, why didn't Yuan Xi appear as a major character in this drama

"Because I haven't competed against them... haha, just kidding."

In a room specially prepared by the company, Ki Seong is being interviewed about "My Neighbor is EXO".

Compared to other main cast members who had accompanying background and music, his interview was very simple. The PD held up a few question boards and he answered them one by one.

After all, he was only a character who appeared for less than a minute.

Facing the camera, Jing Yuan smiled and waved, jokingly saying: "Actually, it's because the shooting task for this drama is really heavy, and the time is relatively tight. For example, Chan Lye and his team once worked day and night for over a week of filming, and I was also involved in some production work for the group's comeback this time, which took up a lot of time. It was difficult to arrange my schedule properly, so when planning the shooting schedule, I had already withdrawn from the role selection."

"This is a TV series where our xo members showcase their lives. It was filmed with great care and the main creative staff worked very hard. We hope everyone will give it lots of support, kamsahamnida."

Never mind.

Ji Jingyuan bowed and thanked the camera, but he couldn't help muttering a sarcastic remark in his heart.

He watched the finished film with Park Chan-wook and his team a few days ago. To be honest, he couldn't really stomach it himself.

However, according to the company and director at the time, although this acting style was somewhat exaggerated, it was more in line with fans' aesthetics and preferences, and Ai Li would definitely like it.

Chi Jingyuan didn't refute, he smiled and nodded in agreement.

Hopefully...

And after filming was completed, Zhiyuan had no other schedule in the afternoon. He could observe other members being interviewed or go back to the practice room for a break.

...After greeting his agent and asking for leave, Ji Jingyuan had Park Jae-hyun drive him to Olympic Park in Fangyi-dong, Songpa District.

Before this, upon Park Jin-young's active invitation, Pool Jingyuan came to see the showcase of Issa and had a meeting to discuss things.

Peninsula asteroid

First Release on Chinese Traditional Novels Networkong-won with surprise, and the several members of Apk beside her all stared at Ji Kyeong-won in front of them without blinking. The gleam in their eyes was as if they had seen a dazzling diamond. Choi...