Chapter Text
2018
The first time your worlds collided was at one of the rare gatherings organized by your friend and senior actor, Choi Wooshik.
At that time, you were a hopeful actress, transitioning from a successful modeling career filled with numerous commercial campaigns. Wooshik had taken you under his wing, providing guidance and support during this transition. You became friends with Wooshik during your school exchange year in Canada, he happened to be close friends with the son of the family who hosted you at the time.
Wooshik was friends with one of the members of the biggest K-pop group, idolized by fans worldwide. Thus, they were always invited to his intimate gatherings. However, having their entire ensemble at one of these events, as was the case that night, was a rare occurrence.
On a whim, Wooshik decided to introduce you to the entire band that evening. Each member greeted you in a unique way.
You remembered that he was the last one to introduce himself. He extended his hand in a reserved yet firm manner and introduced himself simply as "Min Yoongi."
The introductions were swift, and in the whirlwind of that evening, you couldn't help but wonder if they would remember your name the next day. Yet, as you exchanged polite smiles and casual pleasantries, little did you know that these chance encounters would lead to a deeper connection later in your life.
2019
The next time you crossed paths with him was entirely unexpected. Back then, you didn't even realize it was him until much later, long after the encounter had unfolded. You had escaped to a serene and picturesque town just outside of Paris, seeking solace from the bustling streets of Seoul and the relentless reminder of your recent failed audition.
Choosing to explore the tranquil streets of this town on your own, you ventured away from the heart of the one that held a special place in your heart, thanks to your days as a fashion model. Paris, though different from your hectic fashion show seasons, remained a city where you had worked since your teenage years. Basic French had naturally become a part of your skill set.
As you entered a charming, low-key pet boutique, the day unfolded quietly. It was a peaceful Tuesday afternoon, and the shop had only you and the amiable cashier inside, creating an aura of serenity.
You found yourself intrigued by the array of collar tags, each one offering the possibility of customization with various charms, each with its own story to tell. Suddenly, the bell chimed gently, signalling the entrance of another customer. Consumed by your quest to find the perfect collar tag for your beloved dog, you hardly noticed the newcomer.
While you examined the tags adorning the walls, your gaze coincidentally met the eyes of the new patron. Both of you were dressed casually, with your sunglasses perched atop your head and him wearing a cap and a face mask. There was no immediate recognition between you, just a polite nod exchanged, acknowledging your shared ethnicity.
Continuing your shopping, you engaged in a brief conversation with the friendly cashier, inquiring about one of the collar tags you intended to purchase for your furry companion.
It was after your interaction with the cashier that the new patron approached you, showing a hint of hesitation and offering an apology for disturbing you.
"I hope I'm not intruding, but I overheard you speaking French," he tentatively asked in Korean, still somewhat wary of you, despite your apparent lack of recognition.
You responded with a friendly smile, "Yes, is there something I can help you with?"
"I'm looking for this collar tag," he said, holding out the small, beautifully crafted item in his hand. "but in a smaller size."
Taking a closer look at the tag, you realise it bore a striking resemblance to the one now sitting inside your basket. Curiosity piqued, you inquired further, "Oh! I can ask the cashier. What kind of pet do you have?"
"It's for my dog, Holly. He’s a toy poodle," he replied.
Excitement bubbled within you, and you shared, "Oh! I have a Bordoodle myself!" Quickly, you showed a picture of Bagel, your furry companion, as a puppy. "Aren't they wonderful?"
He nodded, but there was a hint of longing in his eyes as he smiled behind his mask. "Holly is actually my parents' dog. He lives with them in my hometown, so I don't get to spend much time with him. But whenever I do see him, he always manages to lift my spirits."
Your heart warmed at the sentiment, and you agreed wholeheartedly, "That's beautiful. Dogs have a unique way of bringing joy into our lives, don't they?"
With a helpful translation, you assisted him in conveying his request to the cashier. As the conversation continued, you both delved into stories about your beloved canine companions and the special bonds you shared with them. With each charm selected for your respective collar tags, you exchanged anecdotes about the significance of these symbols and how they reminded you of your cherished dogs.
Amidst this heartfelt conversation, neither of you felt the need to exchange names or other identifying details. In that quiet pet boutique, amidst the display of collar tags and charms, a connection began to take root—one that would prove to be a significant thread in the tapestry of your lives.
Interlude pt.1
Over the following months, you never crossed paths with him in person, and your previous encounters slowly faded into distant memories.
Even though you had met the entire BTS at Wooshik’s party, you didn't actively seek out information about them or consciously follow their career. Despite occasionally enjoying their songs on the radio, you never delved deeper into their music or their lives. However, their presence seemed omnipresent, an unavoidable fixture in your surroundings.
Their face adorned billboards along city streets. They made appearances on the variety shows you occasionally tuned into and they graced the stages of prestigious awards shows. In these moments, he was always the polished and charismatic Suga, a global idol adored by fans worldwide.
The person you had met in that quaint town just outside of Paris seemed worlds apart from the international superstar he had become. The connection between your chance encounter and his idol status remained concealed, a secret thread of fate awaiting its moment to unravel.
Your own career continued to progress, albeit at a measured pace. You secured modest acting roles while balancing ongoing modelling commitments. The entertainment industry posed its challenges, but your determination to carve out a niche in the world of entertainment never wavered.
Then, the world was plunged into turmoil with the onset of the pandemic, altering the course of everyone's lives. Productions were delayed, film schedules disrupted, and the entertainment landscape transformed. Uncertainty casts a shadow over your profession, but you persevered, seizing the opportunities that arose amidst the chaos.
Meanwhile, BTS continued to ascend in fame and influence. Their music provided solace and inspiration to countless people worldwide during these trying times, cementing their status as global icons.
Your lives ran parallel but distinct, following unique trajectories. It appeared that your paths were destined to remain separate, at least for the time being, as you both navigated the challenges and opportunities that life presented during these transformative years.