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Hyunsuk's bucket list included the desire to attend a live performance by one of his favorite performers. And… it's only around the corner!
The boy band is coming to visit the country after a long and exhausting effort to save money for the seat he desired. Because of this, our main character has been ecstatic since ticket sales began last month. He's finally going to get to see iKON.
Suk vividly remembers how he lined up early to secure tickets for his friends and not just for himself because he was so happy about everything. Of course, he knows that watching with his pals will make it even more fascinating. They’ve been avid fans of the group for years now.
However, after reading the words from Mashiho, Yoshi, and Yedam, his emotions had entirely drained. It turns out he is the only one left to attend the concert after everyone else unexpectedly cancelled due to personal reasons. They've already planned to sell their tickets because so many people are still interested in purchasing. Hyunsuk was powerless to stop the trio.
Mashiho: Really sorry suk, I need the money for our company outing. I can’t be absent :(
Yoshi: Let’s just watch together when they come back here, Hyunsuk-ah. They restocked the limited edition action figure that I want badly. I can’t let go of it anymore.
Yedam: As much as I want to accompany you and also see iKON perform, I was suddenly assigned to be the leader of this new project. I’m sorry, Suk! Maybe next time.
In the end, the blonde just told them that he understands their priorities. Even so, he didn't feel much better, which is why he went to bed with a heavy heart knowing he would be attending alone the next day.
The rays of sunlight filtered through the guy's drapes. It's finally D-Day. Hyunsuk, who had been feeling down but is now upbeat, awoke before his alarm had even gone off. At 6:30 PM, the show will begin, but he plans to arrive around lunchtime.
Maybe he'll meet some new people before the event even starts. In addition, he intends to walk around the venue for a time so he could hand out banners and freebies that he had prepared in advance for his fellow fans. Because of the absence of his friends, the blonde has no idea what to do with all of the images and memories he had planned to take. But he chose to brush off such thoughts as it was the only way to get him through the rest of the day without succumbing to pessimism. After years of waiting for his favorite group, he should be having a great time.
Leaving his apartment at 11:30 AM, Suk made his way to the event. He double-checked everything before he left, including his ticket and the lightstick, to post to his Instagram story. The blonde is now giggling in his seat after reading a few "Enjoy, Suk!"s from his mates. They knew he’d feel bad for going alone so they tried to cheer him up.
After some time, he opted to simply look out the bus window and take in the scenery. The arena is half an hour away from home. He also listened to music, which of course are iKON’s songs and vibed to it throughout the whole ride.
When he left the public transportation, his eyes wandered around the enormous dome. There are already a lot of people outside, many of whom he knows to be fans. As he had expected, some people are snapping photos, passing out banners, and filming what's going on outside.
He began offering out candy and hand banners to girls and guys as he walked. Thanks to their smile, Hyunsuk's mood improved even more. He also made a mental note to provide updates to his friends while the event was still yet to start.
“You’re welcome. Let’s enjoy the concert later!” He exclaimed to the last circle of fangirls who approached him. They waved their hands before leaving and Suk heard that they were going to dine somewhere nearby.
The guy glanced at the last piece of banner and candies he had on his bag, apart from his. He’s hoping that only one person will approach him since he’d surely feel bad if he can’t give one to the others. Just as he was about to settle in one place for a while, Suk somehow got startled when a voice called him from behind.
“Hi. Are you still distributing free banners?”
Hyunsuk swung around to face the newcomer. As soon as their eyes met, he was shocked – rather, starstrucked. A handsome tall guy in his denim jacket was standing in front of him!
“H-hello there.”
When it comes to situations like this, Suk has never been one to play it cool. It’s obvious that the guy’s features almost left his mouth hanging. But as soon as he came back to his senses, he awkwardly laughed and scratched the back of his neck.
The other guy smiled in return and patiently waited for him to talk.
“This is the last one I have. Here are a few candies too.” said Hyunsuk.
“Thank you. My name’s Jihoon.”
Now, Hyunsuk was completely taken aback at the introduction. But he can’t act so affected again or else the other would notice his subtle blushing and think of him weirdly. Which is why he just plastered his signature crescent-eyed smile.
“Welcome. And.. it’s Hyunsuk.”
The two got engaged in a quick gazing contest, not really sure what to do or say next. Why is it even this awkward? They’re literally strangers to each other and merely fans of the same band. But Hyunsuk can’t deny that he’s acting like this because the guy is actually gorgeous.
It felt like Jihoon wanted to say something more if only Hyunsuk’s phone didn’t ring.
“I’m just going to answer this.” The blonde uttered, pointing at his phone to which the latter only nodded.
Suk distanced himself a bit and it turns out that it’s a group call as soon as he answered. Yoshi, Yedam and Shiho all joined the conversation and asked him to tour them around and show them what’s happening.
After nearly ten minutes, the guys said their goodbyes to the blonde and wished him well. Whoever it was that Hyunsuk placed his phone down for, he instantly went on a quest to search for him.
To no avail, he’s no longer around. Jihoon had disappeared from his sight.
- +
After a few hours, Hyunsuk is still wondering about the guy he met earlier. As the arena became more crowded, he didn't see him again. Waiting for his time to enter the venue, he heaved a sigh. There’s only a few people left before him so he had already prepared his ticket. Fortunately, the queueing is well-organized and each section has their own lines.
Unbeknownst to him, Jihoon was only three people away and they’re actually in the same section which is VIP Standing. The other watches his lonely back and can’t wait to meet him inside.
When he considered his stature and vigor, Suk isn't sure why he selected the standing pose. Perhaps, getting a clear view and chance to interact with iKON is all he wants. He silently wished himself luck for later. Upon making his entrance, nervousness mixed with excitement filled the guy. Fans were escorted to their area and Hyunsuk was on the left side of the stage.
After quite some time, as soon as he realized the concert was about to begin, he opted to take a few deep breaths and was immediately beaming from ear to ear.
When fans – including Hyunsuk, began yelling their lungs out, the intro VCR was playing on the screen. They're all clamoring for iKON, and some of them are even jumping in the air in euphoria. Everyone’s phones are focused on the stars of the night.
“I love you all so much!” Suk's screams of joy were audible. The crowd erupted into ecstasy as soon as the band’s first song began playing.
The crowd shouted fanchants while waving their lightstick and it’s only a matter of time before the VIP Standing section became quite a mess. Due to everyone’s enthusiasm, Hyunsuk is sometimes being pushed away from his place and those who are blessed with height really get a lot of privilege – unlike him who almost fell down several times already.
A certain push really made a huge impact on the guy’s body. He was ready to face the floor so he just shut his eyes.
Yet to his surprise, he felt a hand pulling him back and supporting his elbow.
“Are you okay?”
Amidst being in the middle of a loud crowd and ardent fans, Hyunsuk was startled by a soft murmur that pierced his ears.
He recalls the smell and the voice in particular. Even though he only knew of them hours ago.
“Jihoon?” He uttered in reply, still not turning to his side. He’s well aware that the person beside him didn’t hear his call but he’s still not functioning properly and seemed to forget that he’s in the middle of a concert.
He tried focusing on the show, not even thinking of swatting the guy’s hand away. It somehow gave him comfort and the support from Jihoon made everything better unlike earlier. With a quick stolen glance, Hyunsuk watched the taller sing along with iKON, a huge smile painted on his lips.
You’re an angel, spread your wings and I’ll go blind
Everything is like the first time
After another series of singing and cheering, the next VCR is now playing and a space in front of the barricade became empty. Hyunsuk was hesitant to go near because Jihoon might want to go there too. They were not talking to each other so he also didn’t want to ask.
“You should go there. I’ll stand behind you.” The other finally pointed at the space, Hyunsuk felt his cheeks getting warmer when Jihoon still didn’t let go of his hand and accompanied him in going forward.
It didn't help that the person was talking right next to his ear the entire time. It always manages to have a peculiar effect on the smaller.
When they’re already settled down, the smaller can feel Jihoon’s presence behind him the whole time. While iKON's My Type was playing, the dome was still packed with a sea of red lightstick-wielding fans singing along to the song.
Oh oh your cute voice
Oh oh we’re getting closer
Why did you come now?
Love has finally come to me
As Yunhyeong sang his part wholeheartedly, Hyunsuk’s heart seemed to relate a lot to the song and it’s undeniably beating erratically with just the thought of this ‘stranger’ who’s been taking care of him since the concert began.
Jihoon’s actions don't creep him out at all. The other treats him gently and maybe – just maybe it’s his genuine smile which gives Hyunsuk a good feeling. The fact that they love the same group and the way Ji’s eyes sparkle, it presents the blonde peace.
- +
I’m willing to be trapped in your world
I’ll be fine with just one affectionate word
When it comes to starting new relationships, Choi Hyunsuk was typically indifferent. May it be friendship or anything more. He's been happy for years with just three buddies and his family by his side. It’s just because when he was way younger, he got tired of the same cycle.
Meeting people - Telling them about your life - Getting attached - Then they leave.
Though he believes in ‘unexpected people’. When you meet people on your own, without the help of a mutual friend or someone else introducing you to them. The folks who appear out of nowhere and suddenly, wham, you've struck gold!
Suk likes to believe Ji is one of those people.
Because he realized deep down that he's not only enjoying this event because of his favorite singers, but he's also grateful for this one guy who made sure he was comfortable and having the time of his life during the entire event.
The exchanged smiles, occasional glances that they share, and the way they jump in unison while beaming. Oh, Hyunsuk and Jihoon are suddenly living for those.
They were distracted for a short time during iKON's encore because, as fans, they both wanted to interact with their idols. Who wouldn't want that? Hyunsuk was presenting his phone in the hope that a member would shoot a quick selfie or video with it when the members approached the audience.
However, he’s obviously struggling because everyone began moving a lot and shouting. Some were content with a simple handshake, while others wanted their gifts to be noticed. Hyunsuk is being pushed yet again, and his vitality is dwindling as a result of standing for so long.
On top of that, because of the large number of individuals presenting their cellphones, his hands are unable to reach the person he wishes to give it to. Bobby is now in front of them and talking to fans but Hyunsuk couldn’t still move properly.
Then he thought he heard someone mumbling, but the noise was so loud that he couldn't make out what they were saying.
Before he knew it, Bobby was already holding his phone and smiling at the camera.
Jihoon handed it to him.
Rather than taking advantage of the opportunity and holding his idol's hand or perhaps giving his own gifts or phone, he chose to help Hyunsuk with his. When Bobby himself returned the device and smiled at them both, the smaller was left speechless.
That was more than enough for Jihoon. And Hyunsuk's thankful gaze after – it was all he needed.
“Jihoon-ah, thank you!”
When Hyunsuk ran over to hug Jihoon, he thought he had seen a single tear even though it was very dark. A sudden pause in the cacophony of voices and music fills the vast arena.
At that precise moment, all he could see was his hands returning the embrace.
And only Hyunsuk did he see. Nothing nor no one else aside from him mattered anymore.
Three years later.
It’s too late, but please know, I really loved you
Then, now and still
As he listened to Name by iKON, Hyunsuk sighed. Even after a long time, his heart was still pierced by the lyrics. Despite his dejected disposition upon exiting the airport, he quickly burst into a smile upon seeing someone waiting for him.
He didn't expect him to show up.
“You told me you’re busy!” The smaller ran into the guy’s arms and didn’t mind leaving his luggages for a while.
He just wants his hugs after being away from him for weeks.
“I won’t let you wander here alone. Let’s go home.”
They pulled away from the hug before Jihoon took his luggages. He approached Hyunsuk again and the latter thought that they’re going already but he was taken aback when his lover drew him into a kiss.
“I missed you, Hyunsukkie. I saw your frown earlier. You listened to iKON’s sad songs again didn’t you?” Laughter escaped Ji's lips before he kissed him on the forehead. The other person gave him a sneer, but he simply brushed it off.
“I’m just listening to their songs again because we’re attending their concert next week!”
Suk, to be honest, is still unsure why Jihoon requested him to travel to another country only to attend a concert with him. It's just that Ji has a lot going on at work, yet he thought of spending time with his lover. It fills him with glee, as well as something strange is going on in his mind.
Or was it just his gut feeling?
It isn’t.
“Let’s go, love.”
Because a ring is currently waiting at Jihoon’s drawer.
Waiting to be worn by the most beautiful guy to ever exist.
A week from now, in the middle of another loud crowd, Jihoon hopes he’ll successfully whisper to Hyunsuk his endless love and his desire of spending this lifetime together with him.
For Hyunsuk is the perfect lyrics to his song called love.