Like a Brother - Chapter 7

Dear Min Lee,

The summer vacation has just started. How about you? I hope you’ll have lots of fun. ^_^. SHINee will be busy with their schedules. So, I’m alone at home most of the times. But at least I can take the time to house-train the SHINee Kitties and hopefully they can be good friends with Roo. I miss you guys so much.

Regards,

Jin Woo Hyung

Jin Woo

Another day alone at home, I cleaned my house in the morning. Now, time to play with the SHINee Kitties. I looked at each and every one of the kittens, when I first saw them, they were a bunch of weak, skinny lump of fur at 6 weeks old. Now, thanks to all the love and pampering from myself and SHINee they’ve grown big and healthy. Well, apart from Onew, who once became frozen with shock when Choco climbed up his pants for food. Took us a lot of effort to remove Choco as he stucked onto Onew like Velcro. Not to mention they’re lazy as well. They blinked their sleepy eyes at me and went back to sleep.

It took about a week to house-train them. Now they’ve got used to the house as I opened their cage to let them roam. The doorbell rang and I got up to the front to open the door.

“Sorry to disturb you, Jin Woo hyung.” Taemin apologised.

“It’s okay. What is it?” I asked him.

“Could you come over? Jonghyun is not feeling well but he still wants to go for the site recording with us. We’ll be outstation for a few days for the shoot.” Taemin explained.

“Alright. Give me a few minutes.” I told him as I went to change and went over to their place.

The others wanted him to stay before it gets worse. But Jonghyun still insist of following.

“Jonghyun, you’re not feeling well. It’s best for you to get some rest.” I told him.

“Jin Woo hyung, I’m feeling fine. I’m not sick or anything.” He tried to reassure me.

Jonghyun

Seriously, I’m not going to let this little flu get me down.

“Alright then Jonghyun…” Jin Woo looked at me sternly.

“If you’re feeling just fine, then I don’t see why you can’t stand and walk 10 steps in a straight line for us.” He told me. The others were looking concerned.

Just stand and walk. That should be easy. But once I stood up, the whole place seemed to spin…

Jin Woo

I went and caught Jonghyun before he stumbled and helped him down to rest. This guy can be really stubborn at times. Just to make sure, I pushed his hair above the forehead and placed my head on his.

Jonghyun

His forehead was on mine. His face so close, I actually blushed.

“You’re having a fever.” Jin Woo concluded as he got up.

“Don’t worry guys. I’ll take good care of him.” He told the others. “But first I need a bit of help.” He requested.

“And I need Jonghyun to get changed.” He added.

Jin Woo

Minho and Taemin offered to help me. “Thanks guys, I need to move the SHINee Kitties over to your house for the duration I’m staying there.”

“That’s okay. I hope they can be good friends with Roo.” Taemin smiled hopefully as we carried their cage and other necessary items and moved them over. Roo was barking excitedly when she saw the kittens which weren’t paying any attention at all. Maybe because their size was slightly bigger and there’s five of them. Maybe I’ll introduce Roo to them one by one later.

I went to their room and helped Jonghyun down the stairs and carried some of his things.

“For now, you’ll be sleeping on the couch until you get better. But first, we need to go to the clinic.” I told him as we got out of the house.

The others placed their luggage into Mingeul’s car and turned to me. “Jin Woo hyung, please take care of Jonghyun.” They bowed.

“I’ll do my best.” I assured them. Once they’ve left, Jonghyun and I went to the clinic for a checkup.

After the checkup…

Jonghyun

Here I am, feeling weak and feverish. Lying on the couch with a cooling strip on my forehead. Jin Woo was preparing lunch while I rested after taking the medicines. Roo was getting used to the SHINee Kitties since Jin Woo will be staying here for the time being. Just the two of us.

“Okay Jonghyun, your lunch is ready.” Jin Woo placed a bowl of porridge and a glass of water on the table before he helped me to sit. He sat in a chair and watched.

“Aren’t you going to have your lunch?” I asked.

“In a while. After you’ve finished yours.” He told me. The porridge was hot, so it took me some time to finish it.

Jin Woo

Once he’s done, I helped him to lay down. “Now get some rest.” I told him. “If you want anything, just call me.” I added.

I cleared the table except for the glass of water and washed the dishes. After that, I had my lunch. For the rest of the day, I played with Roo and the SHINee Kitties. Careful not to disturb Jonghyun.

“Okay Roo, meet Tiggy, Snow, Panther, Cloud and Choco.” I showed Roo each of the kittens. Roo seemed to be happy to meet them as she kept licking them which the kitten didn’t mind. Things seemed to be going well for them.

I prepared a simple meal for us during dinner and helped Jonghyun to sit while I prepared a warm bath and dry clothes for him. Once done, I helped him into the bathroom and left him by himself.

Few minutes later…

Jonghyun

I was back on the couch as Jin Woo took my temperature again.

“There’s still a slight fever…” He looked at the thermometer and went to get a new cooling strip and placed it on my forehead as I lay down to rest.

Jin Woo

I went to get my dinner and sat beside the couch.

“Jin Woo hyung…” Jonghyun called me.

“Yes?” I looked at him.

“You really went all the way to take care of me…” He said.

“Of course…you reminded me of my brother Min Lee.” I told him.

“Oh, I remembered you mentioned a brother on your first day at school.” Jonghyun said.

“He’s 15 this year. I’ll introduce him to you guys if there’s a chance.” I told him.

Jonghyun

Now’s the only time I have to ask him.

“Errm…Jin Woo hyung…” I called him.

“Yup?” He looked at me again.

“That day during your solo performance…” I started.

“What is it?” He asked. His expression a bit suspicious.

There’s no use beating around the bush now. Might as well go straight to the point. “When you saw Lee Shin Kyung, you looked different. Did he do something to you in the past?” I asked him.

There was no response from Jin Woo. His expression turned to icy cold as a dark shadow passed between his eyes.

Jin Woo

So Jonghyun had noticed. But I can’t get anyone else involved in my troubles. Especially those relating to people like Lee Shin Kyung.

“I’m sorry, Jonghyun. This is something that I can’t tell anyone.” I answered him.

“Sorry that I asked.” He apologised.

“That’s okay.” I told him.

Jonghyun

 “Jin Woo hyung, if you need any help, you can always come to me.” I told him. It was the only way I can help him.

“Thanks Jonghyun. Now get some rest. I’ll clean up in a while.” He told me and I obeyed.

Jin Woo

After I cleaned the dishes, I had my shower and rested in the chair beside the couch. Roo was sleeping on the floor beside Jonghyun as I picked her up.

“Roo, appa is not feeling well at the moment. So Roo will be staying with me for the time being.” I told her as I held her. She whined as she looked at Jonghyun and rested her head on me. As though she understood what I said.

I covered Roo and myself with the blanket I brought over from my house and looked at Jonghyun. He looked so peaceful in his sleep. Even though he means well just now, I can’t let him go through the same thing what my family had ever again. With that thought in my mind. I fell asleep…

Late at night…

Jonghyun

I woke up by myself. At least now the fever has gone down. I looked at the chair beside where Jin Woo was sleeping. Lee Shin Kyung, the man he seemed to have a deep feeling of hatred. What had he done to Jin Woo in the past? I knew it was useless to ask Jin Woo directly. I can only hope that he doesn’t get into any trouble with that man again…

“I’ll promise to protect you…” I whispered before resuming my sleep…

Two days later…

Jin Woo

“Congratulations…You’ve finally recovered.” I told Jonghyun after taking his temperature.

“Thanks for taking care of me.” He told me.

“It’s nothing.” I replied with a smile.

“Jin Woo hyung…” He said as I looked at him.

“If you don’t mind…I want to bring you to the theme park tomorrow. As thanks for troubling you these past few days.” He told me.

“If you insist, then I guess I’m alright with it.” I replied him.

“Great.” He smiled.

It’s been a long time I’ve been to a theme park. I’m sure it’s going to be a fun day tomorrow. But I still need to watch over Jonghyun’s diet for a while…

Like a Brother - Chapter 6

Dear Min Lee

Tomorrow is our School Festival performance. Everyone is getting hyped-up about it. I’m getting really nervous too. But everyone have put in all their effort on the routine. I hope things will go well. Wish us luck.

Regards,

Jin Woo Hyung

Jin  Woo

Today’s the School Festival where students get to enjoy after all the hard work in their studies. We’ve practiced our routine very hard. I just hope that everything will go as planned today.

But now…We’re dressed up as waiters because majority of our class decided on a café theme for the day.

Half the day has already gone by, yet there are more customers waiting in line outside. Key and I were busy preparing the desserts using the school’s cooking room with some of the girls from our class while Jonghyun, Minho, Taemin and Onew served the customers with the other classmates. Jonghyun and Minho would occasionally come over once in a while to check on us and carry the prepared dishes. Everyone worked very hard as all the earnings will be used to fund future school projects.

Jonghyun

Running the café is not an easy job at all. There were lots of customers streaming in. Maybe they’re attracted to my awesome looks. I hope the others don’t overwork themselves. Especially those in charge of preparing the food.

I can’t help wondering how they’re handling with the orders. But seeing Key and Jin Woo enjoying what they do, I guess it’s not going to be a problem. Besides, they have the girls to help after all. I hope they’ll make a few extras for us too.

Jin Woo

Soon, it was already 5.00pm. Most of the guests have gathered at the school hall for the performances. As our turn draws near, I got very nervous. Maybe I shouldn’t have made that request earlier. But it’s too late to turn back now. Just then, there was a pat on my shoulder and I turned to look at Jonghyun. “Don’t worry, Jin Woo hyung. We’ve gone through the routine many times already. Everything will be ok.” He gave me his usual grin, showing his tiger tooth that reveals his mischievous nature. If only they knew what I’ve done a moment ago.

Just then, another performance has ended as the emcee announced “Now, our next performance is by a special request from the performer himself…” Everyone was curious about the announcement.

“Presenting…Kim Jin Woo…!!” The emcee announced as I got ready to go to the stage.

SHINee looked at me in surprise. “You requested to perform?” Jonghyun asked me.

“Yes Jonghyun. I wanted to perform by myself. At least I won’t always be under your shadows right?” I smiled at him.

Jonghyun gave me a hug. “Good luck, Jin Woo hyung.” He told me as the others gathered around to wish me luck as well.

“Don’t worry…our collaboration is right after this…” I waved at them and went on stage.

I was excited as I looked at the audience. But when my eyes fell onto the VIP seats, it died on the spot. Sitting together with the Principal, was the man that I never wished to see in my life. The cause for my family’s suffering. Lee Shin Kyung.

For a moment my hate towards the man was so strong that I wanted to kill him. Yet realising where I was, I had to bury this hatred in my heart and focused on my performance. I bowed to the audience and calmed myself down as I held my violin. With that, I started playing the first note…

Jonghyun

This was a moment for Jin Woo to show his full musical potential. He was so excited looking at the crowd. But suddenly, his face changed. There was shock at first, but then there was unspeakable hatred. Yet, all those expressions changed in a matter of moments. I wonder if the others saw it. I turned towards the direction where Jin Woo was looking to see who could cause such changes in him.

“Who’s that sitting with the Principal?” I asked the others.

“You don’t know?” Minho asked. I shook my head.

“He’s the President of Shin Kyung Enterprise and Chairman of the school board, Lee Shin Kyung.” Key explained.

“They have business across the globe, and also in a few major industries.” Taemin added.

“You need to keep yourself updated with all these things.” Onew said.

I looked back at the person and wondered. What did he do to make Jin Woo have such feelings?

What connection does he have with Jin Woo’s past?

Somehow, Jin Woo managed to calm himself down as he began his performance. The music, was almost similar to the one I heard in the studio last time when he first performed. The atmosphere was like a black mourning parade.

Jin Woo’s expression was of sadness, of losing something precious that was never to be found again. Yet, there was a smile on his face. As I listened to the music, I realised that it was not a music to mourn. More like a celebration, that there was something good that occurred from the loss. The atmosphere in the hall, to be more accurate, does not feel like a black mourning parade. But rather, a black masquerade ball. I was amazed at Jin Woo’s talent.

Jin Woo

As I ended my performance, there was complete silence. Slowly, there were claps as the audience started to stand. But I looked at the man, right in his eyes. There was no expression on his face. He’s already seen and recognised me, and I know my days are numbered.

The emcee then announced our collaboration performance as SHINee came on stage. I smiled at them as I stepped back to make room.

“This is the first time we’re doing a collaboration.” Onew addressed the audience. SHINee was using the headmics.

“We hope everyone will enjoy our performance.” We bowed in front of the audience and started our performance.

I looked at the expression in the audience listening to the song while I played my violin. As some of them were girls, they got excited over the song and sometimes sang the lines together. The whole hall seemed to be in a sunny mood with SHINee leading the audience as they reach the climax. Sometimes they would even let the audience sing a few lines of the song. Their dance moves were equally impressive. Though I should have gotten used to it since we’ve practiced together all the time. But on stage, it’s as if they shined just like the name of their group. Performing together with them on stage, this will be something that I’ll never forget for life.

After the performance…

Jonghyun

We helped to clean up the class when the School Festival ended. Everyone was congratulating us on our performance. Even Jin Woo as well. But something just kept bothering me since the day we went shopping and the solo performance just now.

“Jin Woo hyung…” I went and patted on his back.

“What is it Jonghyun?” Jin Woo turned around to look at me.

“Okay guys, your desserts are here!” Key interrupted as he brought the extra desserts for the whole class. Everybody cheered. Jin Woo was still waiting for me to answer him.

“Your solo performance was great.” I told him.

“Thanks. You guys were amazing on stage as well.” He complimented.

“Not without your violin and my awesome skills.” I gave him my best to cover up.

“Sure.” He laughed as he turned and went to help himself with the desserts.

Maybe next time I’ll ask him, and I’ll protect him so that he won’t get hurt again. No matter what happened in the past.

In the evening…

Jin Woo

We were walking back home after the School Festival. It was a fun day overall, and I get to perform with SHINee side by side.

“Summer vacation is starting tomorrow…” Key said as we were walking.

“But we have so much recordings and appearances on our schedule.” Taemin complained.

“Well, we’re famous…It can’t be helped.” Minho smiled.

“We’ll just have to do our best.” Onew added.

“I’ve nearly forgot…” Jonghyun turned.

“What is it?” I asked him.

“I wanted to tell you guys that I’ve booked the company villa by the beach during the final week of the vacation. We can enjoy ourselves over there.” He smiled.

“That’s nice.” I said.

“Well…it’ll be great if you could join us too, Jin Woo hyung.” Jonghyun looked at me.

“What about Roo and the SHINee Kitties?” I asked.

“Oh, we can keep our pets there as well.” Taemin explained. Which means this wasn’t their first time.

“Alright then…” I agreed.

Since their summer will be occupied with work, I wonder how will mine turn out…

Like a Brother - Chapter 5

Dear Min Lee,

I’ll be performing with SHINee during the School Festival. But first, there’s the mid-term exams. Because of that, I won’t be able to send mails to you for a while. I’ve also joined SHINee’s company as a composer intern. Attached are pictures of my new workplace and colleagues. I’ll do my best so that I won’t disappoint them. Wish me luck.

Regards,

Jin Woo Hyung

Jin Woo

It’s another weekend morning. And the mid-term exam is three weeks away. After that, only 1 month left to practice for the School Festival. I’ve spent nights trying to come up with study plans and notes. Luckily I’ve asked Jonghyun to buy the stationeries I need when we went shopping last time. I went through the notes and practice questions once more before I packed.

Once done, I called Key to see if he’s awake.

“Ah, Jin Woo hyung. Perfect timing.” Key said as he answered my call.

“Are the others awake yet?” I asked him.

“Not yet, you can come over now. I’ll open the door for you. We can prepare breakfast together.” Key said.

“That sounds great. See you in five minutes.” I told Key before I hung up. I checked all the necessary items again. Whiteboard stand, summary charts, practice questions…Everything’s ready. I carried the things down and took some time to feed the SHINee Kitties. They’re growing bigger now and I think it’s time to train them. At least I’ve already kitty-proofed my house based on the advise in the cat care books Jonghyun have bought for me. So no worries on that. Then it dawned on me…this will be the first time I’m meeting his pet Daschund, Roo. I wonder how she looks like.

Key was already by the front door when I’ve arrived. He helped carried some of the items and placed them in the living room. Just then, I felt something brushing my feet and looked down. A black and brown Daschund puppy was looking up at me. Its tail wagging happily.

“You must be Roo. I’m Jin Woo…” I crouched down to pet the puppy. It licked all over my hands.

“I see she has started to like you.” Key smiled as he placed the items I’ve brought.

“I hope she can be friends with the SHINee Kitties.” I said to him.

“We’ll just have to take things slowly for that.” Key replied.

“So, what are we having for breakfast?” I asked him while I washed my hands.

“Ham, eggs, sausages, baked beans and toast.” Key replied.

“Sounds good.” I said to him while we put on aprons.

It took us roughly 15 to 20 minutes to prepare the food. We’ve set up the dining table and removed the aprons.

“Now then, here comes the fun part…” Key said as he told me the plans to wake the others…

In the room…

Jin Woo

“Remember the plan…” Key reminded. I was to wake up Minho and Jonghyun while Key wakes Onew and Taemin. I nodded in reply.

“1…2…3…” Key gave the signal. We pinched the others’ noses and held. Moments later, they immediately woke up and were gasping for air.

“Good morning…” Key and I smiled.

“Why are you here?” Jonghyun was the first one to ask.

“You forgot what we’re supposed to do today?” I asked him back.

“Errm….” He was scratching his head.

“Oh…right…the exam studies…” Taemin realised.

“Yeah…I knew that…I was about to say it.” Jonghyun nodded.

Right…

“Go and freshen up yourselves first. Then only you can have your breakfast.” Key instructed as we got up.

“Breakfast….!!” They tried to barge through the door where Key and I were standing as we held them back.

“Go and clean yourselves up first.” I told them.

“You and what army?” Jonghyun smirked as they looked at us.

“There’s 4 of us and only 2 of you. We’ll definitely own you guys for sure.” Minho added as Onew and Taemin nodded. Key and I gave them the cross-us-and-you’ll-never-see-the-daylights-of-tomorrow-again look. They immediately put up a white flag and headed to the bathroom. Key and I can’t help laughing as we headed downstairs.

Study time…

Jin Woo

Everyone seated around the living room table on the floor. Trying out the practice questions and discussing the summary charts on the whiteboard stand. Being his typical self, Jonghyun fall asleep almost all the time. Making him the easy target for my constant poking attacks from the side and Onew’s ‘Ttakbam’ attacks. There’s even a red mark on his forehead.

Jonghyun was again distracted when Roo came over. “Roo…You know the sufferings your appa has to go through for this?” He petted her and smiled.

“Roo…come over here…” I called her as I patted my leg.

“No Roo…Don’t leave appa…That appa is bad…very bad…” Jonghyun tried to stop her.

Roo left Jonghyun’s side and came over. She rested her head on my leg as I patted her head. “Seems like she wants the best for you after all.” I smirked at him.

“Roo…!! You betrayed me…!!” There was a hurtful look on Jonghyun’s face. I feel kind of pity for him. I patted on his head.

“There, there Jonghyun. Roo will be my hostage for now until this study session is over and you’ve answered the questions correctly.” I told him.

Jonghyun

No…!! Even Roo has betrayed me and now she’s being held hostage by Jin Woo. And I’ve got so much more to go. This is utter human torture.

“This is not fair.” I whined.

Jin Woo held my chin as he looked at me. “Jonghyun, in love and in war, everything is fair.” He smiled devilishly. I’m scared by his expression and immediately turned my attention on the mountain of study work left to do. Crying in my heart.

Jin Woo

Poor Jonghyun…Maybe I’ve gone a bit too far. But at least it motivates him to study. We stopped for a bit when it was near lunch time as Key and I started to work in the kitchen. The others are having a rest with Jonghyun being especially happy while playing with Roo.

Jonghyun

Finally, a break from the tortures. And Roo’s back by my side.

“Did you miss me?” I played a bit with Roo.

“Enjoy it while it lasts, Jonghyun…” Jin Woo said from the kitchen. An evil laughter followed after that. That kind of makes me worried of what to come. Just then, there was a pat on my shoulder and I looked at Onew.

“You’re a good guy…We will miss you for life.” He looked at me solemnly.

“We’ll take good care of Roo for you…” Taemin added.

I’ll get you guys for this once it’s over.

Jin Woo

“You’re so mean.” Key said as we made lunch.

“I can’t help it. Jonghyun kept falling asleep, he’s practically asking to be bullied.” I laughed.

“Well, I guess he does deserve it.” Key agreed with a grin.

We set up the table and served lunch. One of the only time everyone get to relax from studying.

“You know, once the exam is over, we’ve only got 1 more month to practice for School Fetival.” Onew said.

“We need to prepare our classroom as well. They’re planning to turn it into a café.  They even got the uniforms for waiters and waitresses.” Key added.

“I guess we could skip the workload first since we need to come up with a performance routine.” Jonghyun suggested.

“Then we’ll need to make sure to come up with an amazing performance to make up for it.” Minho added.

“At least we’ve done the recording beforehand.” Taemin said cheerfully.

“So it’s just only the rehearsals left. But first, we must do well in the exams.” I told the others.

We all had lunch while discussing other things.

After lunch…

Jonghyun

I’m back to being tortured, Roo is being held hostage again by Jin Woo and I’ve still got notes and questions to go through before the day is over. When will I be able to finish this?

Jin Woo

A sigh came from Jonghyun every once in a while. I guess it’s pretty tough for him. Every time he looks at Roo, it’s like as though he wanted to say. “Don’t worry, appa will save you.” Poor guy.

By evening, everyone else have covered what they needed. Only Jonghyun left still struggling.  I helped him out by suggesting certain points and methods to answer each individual question. By the time he’s done, dinner was ready.

Another day just gone by on studying. There’ll be more to be done tomorrow. But first, I need to come up with the plan to help Jonghyun after today. Hopefully it’ll work…

After mid-term exams…

Jin Woo

It’s two weeks after the exam. Everyone is anxious to know about the results. I know we’ve already prepared for it really well. Especially Jonghyun after I’ve implemented the study plan that I’ve worked out for him. The good news, everyone passed.

“Congratulations, Jonghyun.” I smiled at him.

“It’s because I’m awesome.” He gave the biggest grin ever.

“Oh, really?” I gave him a questioning look.

“Of course, Jin Woo hyung’s plan helped me out a lot.” He corrected himself as I laughed.

Another two more weeks to the School Festival. I wonder how it will turn out…

Like a Brother - Chapter 4

Dear Min Lee,

Shopping was tiring…!!! We’ve spent the whole day buying stuff and end up carrying bags of them home. Not just only that, I had to parade in front of the others the clothes that Minho and Key had chosen for me and also receive a long lecture from Key on personal grooming. T-T But it was quite enlightening anyway.  Attached are pictures of my new look and outfits. Do you like it?

Regards,

Jin Woo Hyung

Jin Woo

Well, it’s Monday.  I’m seriously nervous on what the other students’ reaction will be with my new look. After feeding the SHINee Kitties, I got ready and left home. SHINee was waiting outside.

“So, shall we make a move?” Jonghyun asked as he smiled at me.

“Guess there’s no escaping this…” I sighed.

“Cheer up Jin Woo hyung, You look better now.” Key assured me.

“Just be confident with yourself.” Minho added. Onew and Taemin nodded in agreement.

“Jin Woo hyung, you’re bringing your violin along?” He asked.

“Yeah, it’s still too early for first bell. Thought I can play a tune or two.” I answered.

“What-is-for-lunch-today?” Onew hummed happily as he looked at the multi-tiered container I’m carrying in the other hand.

“Sushis.” I replied him. “Though I only made the simple ones.” I added. They cheered and high-fived among each other. Guess they’re just as excited with the food I cook every other day since both Key and I decided to take turns.

“We must trade recipes one of these days.” Key told me as he smiled. I nodded in agreement. Key’s cooking is just as good too.

“Kyaa…!!! It’s SHINee…” A girl screamed when we reached the school gate. We were immediately surrounded by a huge crowd. We tried to make our way through towards the class.

“Ahhh…They’re just as cute as ever…!!!” Another shouted.

“Wait…who’s the guy that’s with them?” One of the girls asked. Here we go…

“Why is he so close with our SHINee?” Another asked. Jealousy?

“What makes him so special?” Another added.

I knew this would happen.

“Whatever…He’s just as cute as them.” One of the girls said.

“That’s true…No qualms on that.” Another agreed.

Somehow I seem to get mixed comments from the girls.

“Wait…what’s that in his hand?” One of the girls asked.

“Looks like a violin.” Another answered.

“It can’t be…!! Could it be the new guy?” One girl said in amazement. The news seemed to spread like fire.

Jonghyun turned towards the crowd. Guess he can’t take it anymore.

“If you’re still wondering. He’s Jin Woo hyung.” He addressed the crowd.

“Please take good care of our hyung.” Minho added. Instantly the crowd screamed.

“Anything for SHINee and Jin Woo…!!” One of the girls shouted.

I immediately blushed. Now I’m starting to have my own fan base. The others just smiled as we went to the class to place our things.

“Better get used to it.” Jonghyun said to me.

“I want to hear your violin skills in person.” Onew requested.

“Yeah, we didn’t get to hear the whole song last time.” Taemin added.

“If you guys insist.” I said as we headed towards the music room.

“Of course!!” Came a unanimous reply.

Just then, we passed by a bulletin board and Onew stopped.

“Hey guys, look at this.” He said as we went closer.

“The School Festival…and it’ll be held in 4 months time.” Key said.

“Think we should perform?” Taemin asked enthusiastically.

“We’ll need to inform our manager on this first before making any decisions.” Jonghyun said.

“Interested to follow us after school today?” Minho asked me.

“Where to?” I asked him.

“The recording studio of course.” He smiled.

That came as a surprise. I didn’t know how to respond.

“I guess silence means agreement.” Jonghyun smiled.

“W..wait..!! What about my job?” I asked them.

“I think we better pay your employer a visit first.” Onew decided.

“B…But…” I wanted to reject the invitation.

“No buts…You’re coming with us and that’s that.” Key said.

“Besides, the songs you composed are definitely worth the appraisal from our studio crew.” Taemin added.

“Please come with us….” They all pleaded. Somehow I knew all my attempts will be futile.

“Fine…” I gave in.

“Great…!! Now let’s hear your violin…” Onew smiled as we continued towards the music room.

After school…

Jin Woo

As promised, SHINee followed me to my employer. At first he was stunned with SHINee’s presence. After a while, I explained to him the whole situation inside the staff room.

“It’s ok Jin Woo. Since you have such good talents in music, you shouldn’t let it go to waste.” He smiled at me.

“Thank you sir.” I bowed to him in respect.

“No need to thank me. You have been such a great help. Even if you work only part-time.” He said as we came out from the staff room.

At the store entrance, he patted my shoulder. “I wish you all the best. Maybe someday we’ll be selling your albums here as well.” He smiled at me.

“Thank you so much.” I bowed again before leaving with SHINee.

At the recording studio…

Jonghyun

We explained to Mingeul the whole situation. While he listened. “So, he’s the friend that you all have been talking about?” He asked.

“Yes, Mingeul hyung.” Onew replied.

“Well then, I don’t see any problem if he wants to join us.” Mingeul replied with a smile.

“And you really want to perform in the School Festival?” He asked.

“Yes, we do.” Taemin answered.

“I’ll consider on that first.” He replied. “Well then. Let’s meet your friend.” He added.

I hope things will get better from here.

Jin Woo

I was very nervous while SHINee discussed with their manager about the School Festival. I just can’t stop fidgeting in my seat. After a while, their manager came over towards me.

“Jin Woo right? I’m SHINee’s manager.” He introduced himself while I stood and bowed.

“I understand that you are their friend, and also talented with music.” He said to me.

“Yes Sir.” I replied him.

“No need to call me Sir. Just Mingeul hyung will do.” He told me casually.

“Alright boys. Resume your practice. I’ll show Jin Woo around personally.” He told SHINee went into the studio.

Mingeul then showed me around the studio, introducing everyone to me. Then we went to meet the songwriter.

“Ah, meet Yu Hee. She’s the person behind the creation of SHINee’s songs.” Mingeul introduced.

“You must be Jin Woo. The boys have told me a lot about you.” Yu Hee greeted.

“Nice to meet you Miss.” I bowed.

“Please, call me Yu Hee noona.” She smiled at me.

“Well, I’ll leave you two alone for now.” Mingeul left the room.

“They said the songs you compose are good.” Yu Hee said as we sat on a couch.

“Well, I can’t say it’s good. They just sang it well.” I replied humbly.

“That’s true. A songwriter must know the strengths and weaknesses of each singer and compose the best possible song for them.” Yu Hee explained. “May I have a look at your creations?” She asked.

“Sure.” I opened my violin case and passed her the music book. She looked through and hummed some parts of my songs.

Once done, she passed the book back to me. “I must say, you really have talent in music.” She complimented.

“Thanks. My parents used to work as singers in a night club while I was growing up.” I told her.

“I see you play the violin as well.” She said.

“I’ve just started playing after a few years.” I replied.

“Doesn’t matter. As long as you have the passion in music. I think you can do very well in future.” She said and got up.

“I’m sure you didn’t see the boys practiced before. Let’s go there together.” Yu Hee said as she opened the door. I followed behind her to the recording room.

“Well, Jin Woo. You’re just in time.” Mingeul greeted when we entered.

This is the first time I see SHINee practicing their song. From their face, I can see that they put all of their emotions into each song. Their voice was in sync with each other. Just like the time when they sang a part of the song from my music book.

“Now you know why they became famous.” Yu Hee told me as we watched. I was amazed by them.

“How would you like to work as a composer? You’ll be under my care as an internship.” Yu Hee asked. I was caught off guard by the request.

“This is a great honour for me, but I don’t think I can accept it.” I told her.

“It’s a waste if you don’t. You have such good talents.” She said.

“Jin Woo, you should take this chance. Not everyone is offered such internship. Especially under Yu Hee.” Mingeul said.

“Oh, Mingeul. You don’t have to be that exaggerating.” Yu Hee laughed.

I gave a lot of thought on this.

“You have nothing to lose. And you’ll earn your salary as well.” Mingeul offered.

“Alright then, I accept.” I told them.

“That’s great.” Mingeul smiled.

“One more thing…” Yu Hee whispered something. Mingeul looked at me for a while and nodded. I wonder what Yu Hee told him.

Once they’re done. SHINee came out from the recording room. “So, Jin Woo hyung. What do you think about our place?” Jonghyun asked.

“It’s great Jonghyun. The staff here are so nice.” I told him.

“Glad you like it.” He smiled.

“Jin Woo, would you mind playing a tune with your violin?” Mingeul asked.

“What?” I was caught off guard by the request.

“Come on Jin Woo hyung. Play a tune for us.” Minho asked.

“Okay…” I agreed and went into the recording room. I took out the violin and calmed myself. After that, I started playing a tune from my music book.

Jonghyun

When Jin Woo played his violin, it was as though he’s in another world. Yet his music seemed to convey the feelings to those who listened. Haunting and full of sorrow. I couldn’t believe such a song was composed by a 19 year old guy.

But, something doesn’t feel right. Though his eyes were closed, his face seemed to look so sad. Was it that the song relates to something that happened to him in the past? Or was he just feeling the emotions that the music was supposed to convey? I didn’t want to jump into any conclusions for that as we continued to listen. Somehow I felt like wanting to find out what happened to him in the past…

Jin Woo

I didn’t know why I chose this song. Playing it just brings back the dark memories. It brought back my hate towards Shin Kyung Enterprise. The person that I loathe the most for causing all the pains in my family. Though they didn’t show it, but I can see what the incident has done to my parents. Sometimes I can hear my mom trying to calm my dad late at night.

After realising where I was, I quickly shook the thought out of my head as I packed and left the room. “So, how was it?” I asked everyone.

“That was awesome…!!” Jonghyun said.

“I have to say, your performance was tremendous.” Mingeul agreed.

“Speaking of which…” He looked at SHINee. “About the School Festival, it’s alright for you guys to perform. We’ll just rearrange the schedules to accommodate the event and practice.” He told them.

“Great…!!!” They cheered. “We were planning to make it a collaboration.” Jonghyun said as he placed his arm around my shoulder.

“Me?” I asked in surprise.

“Who else is there other than you?” Jonghyun replied with a smile.

“I think it’s a great idea as well…We could one of the songs from Jin Woo’s collection…An upbeat tune…I believe the title was ‘Youthful’.” Yu Hee suggested recalling one of the songs from my book.

“I’m looking forward to that.” Mingeul smiled.

“One more thing…” Yu Hee said as SHINee looked at her. “Jin Woo will be working as my intern starting tomorrow.” She smiled.

I turned and bowed to SHINee. “Please take good care of me.” I told them.

“The same goes for us.” They bowed back. We couldn’t help laughing as they came and congratulated me.

In the evening…

Jin Woo

Mingeul dropped us outside our house before leaving. I turned around to look at SHINee. “Thanks for everything today.” I smiled at them.

“You deserve the best. After all that you’ve done for us.” Jonghyun said. “Besides, you’ve got talent too.” He added.

“See you guys tomorrow then.” I bade them farewell as I entered my home.

Now I’m looking forward to our performance during the School Festival…