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Kotone doesn’t know when she first developed feelings. One day she’s oblivious and the next she’s being elbowed with all the force Kaede can muster that leaves Kotone hissing in pain.
“Good to have you back Kotone, now if you can avoid dozing off again.” Their manager, Haesol, scolded Kototone, leaving the Japanese girl feeling red. Looking around Kotone saw the majority of the members actually paying attention, the usual troublemakers sitting straight up and giving Haesol unnie their undivided attention. Guess that's what happens when said meeting is about finally taking all 24 members to Lotte World, the company reserving an entire night for them. No Badge War, no weird challenges, no hidden games, just pure relaxation and fun for the group.
Course, there would still be some filming, and they had to stick in pairs the entire night but at least it was some freedom. Each pair would only have to film the initial entry, and at least 2 rides.
Kotone had actually read the plan beforehand, having had a meeting prior, seeing the packet as she was waiting for her individual meeting. So, having the information repeated left her bored, especially since the younger members kept asking a million questions.
Looking around the room, her eyes drifted once again to the cause of her daydreaming that had earned her a scolding.
Lee Jiwoo. Slouching in her chair, confusion written all over her face. Confusion at what, Kotone had no idea, but Kotone liked seeing Jiwoo like that. Jiwoo was the type of idol who wasn’t ashamed to show all her sides, especially in front of the cameras and fans. The younger girl not afraid to make herself look like a fool, and maybe that’s why they got along so well. They could goof off and be as loud as they wanted to, at least until another member would inevitably shush them. Making the duo try to keep their laughter to a minimum, before another wave of laughter would erupt from Jiwoo.
Jiwoo had been one of the members that Kotone was able to get close with easily. Jiwoo didn’t care about the initial awkwardness each new member brought in, instead she immediately dragged Kotone and Yeonji out to explore Seoul. Showing them the best places for food with reasonable prices and the department clothes carrying the latest trending clothing.
Jiwoo wasn’t shy, she filled in the quiet, usually with jokes and laughter. She wasn’t mean, she was caring and patient, baking them treats and listening to everyone's grievances, putting their feelings over hers. She was a shoulder to lean on despite being part of the younger members.
Kotone brought herself back to reality, quicking glancing around, making sure no one caught her again. Luckily she was in the back, easier to hide her daydreaming.
Honestly, she wasn’t even sure why the Korean was on her mind more often these days. Seems like even her fellow members couldn’t stop talking about Jiwoo. Kaede mentioning how Jiwoo’s hugs were the best, feeling safe and comforted. Chaeyeon would boast how kind Jiwoo was, shedding a fake tear each time. Mayu and Jiyeon especially would bring up Jiwoo in every conversation. Asking her if she thought that Jiwoo looked extra handsome that day, or asking if Jiwoo’s cookies were good enough to open a bakery. Unfortunately, Jiwoo, Chaeyeon and Yubin would often be within earshot, the latter two ending up teasing them to the point of Jiwoo excusing herself and running off with ears bright red.
Kotone honestly found Jiwoo’s flustered face cute. Not an expression Jiwoo usually showed, as the taller girl was usually confident in everything she did, brushing off compliments and moving on. Yet here she was, flustered at a simple compliment from Kotone. The Japanese couldn’t place her finger on why though. Maybe Jiwoo’s tsundere side was finally cracking.
“-and with that, I will leave Yooyeon and Seoyeon to pair everyone up. There will be no changing partners, and no complaints. They have both been instructed to choose pairs based on the company’s suggestions along with their judgement.” With that, Haesol unnie left, leaving everyone in the room stunned, looking towards the two unofficial leaders. Yooyeon gave no reaction, while Seoyeon just glared back at everyone, standing up with a sigh.
“Alright, Yooyeon unnie and I already picked pairs, they were approved by the content staff as well. If I hear any form of dissatisfaction, I will handcuff you to your partner for a week. Understood?” Seoyeon challenged, hands on her hips, looking quite intimidating despite her short stature.
Agreements filled the room, no one wanting to face Seoyeon’s wrath. Yooyeon also stepped up to the front of the room, notebook in hand, presumably the list of pairs. “I need all pairs to respond once your name is called off. You are free to leave once you know who you’re with.” Yooyeon instructed.
“First up, Jiyeon and Yubin.” A loud screech made everyone jump, covering their ears at the deafening sound. Kotone sighed, of course Yubin would be the one to scream out of excitement. Seoyeon only glared at Yubin, causing her to sheepishly smile before hurrying out of the room with Jiyeon in tow.
“Next up, Seoah and Sohyun.” Seems like Yooyeon was starting backwards from S24. Kotone drowned out the names being called, luckily no more loud yelling, only soft responses and chairs sliding.
“Jiwoo and Kotone.” Kotone sat up from her chair clumsily. Not expecting to be paired with the younger Korean. The company not usually pairing them up as they pushed the popular ships, catering to the fans. Glancing towards Jiwoo, she saw the girl looking equally surprised, yet softened her face, giving her a small “meep” as the fans liked to say.
After a quick response back, the duo left the room, neither making a sound until they were further down the hallway. Kotone had no complaints, being paired with Jiwoo would either be the most chaotic, loud amusement park trip of her life, or it would be calm with bouts of laughter here and there. Jiwoo was the type to match a person’s energy, but Jiwoo was also an energetic person who loved going to amusement parks.
“Hey losers, wanna make this a double date?” Yubin popped into their view, holding hands with Jiyeon. The pair having been a couple for almost a year now, although they only recently shared their relationship with the rest of the group. Unfortunately, Kotone was not spared, having known about Jiyeon’s crush and having helped with the confession, along with hearing all the details on their dates and how in love Jiyeon was. Jiyeon was down bad, something Kotone would tease her about. Jiyeon would shoot back, saying she’ll get her back whenever the Japanese girl does end up in a relationship.
Kotone only scoffed, never seeing herself get to that level. Her past relationships never having Kotone be truly invested, only acting what was expected before eventually being broken up with, girls saying that while Kotone was a good partner, she never seemed to truly love them. Something that caused Kotone to distance herself and instead focus on achieving her dream.
Still, she did secretly like to see their relationship bloom, happy for her best friend.
“Come on Kotone, I bet it’ll be fun.” Jiyeon had started begging, making the best puppy face, something that Kotone hated to admit, actually worked on her. Still, not one to show what she was truly feeling, Kotone grimaced back at Jiyeon. “Please never make that face again. At least not to me.”
Yubin only gasped, “How dare you say that to Jiyeon? Is this not the most beautiful face you’ve ever seen?” Yubin grabbed Jiyeon’s face, squishing her cheeks together and moving it closer to Kotone who could only lean back with disgust.
Jiwoo could only laugh, clapping her hands at the scene in front of her, reminding Kotone of a seal.
After a minute, Jiwoo calmed down, wrapping an arm around Kotone, “Come on Tone unnie, I bet it’ll be fun. Plus we gotta supervise these two in making sure PDA stays out of camera view.”
Kotone couldn’t say no even if she wanted to, truly weak to the other 3. Grumbling, Kotone agreed, causing the others to jump up, the Japanese getting carried down the hall by Jiwoo and Jiyeon. Kotone cursed her shortness.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The day arrived.
Excitement filled the air of the bus, everyone chattering amongst themselves. Some were singing, some were finalizing their plans and Kotone was having fun messing with Seoyeon. All the pairs were sitting with each other, Jiwoo next to her, Yubin and Jiyeon in the row next to them, Seoyeon and Chaewon in the seats in front of her. Something that Seoyeon probably regretted as she had the 4 loud individuals saying complete nonsense to her, at some point spreading to Chaewon. Seoyeon, seemingly unable to calm the younger members, had resigned, joining in on the chaos.
Soon the bus pulled to a stop, causing the loudness to increase even more. Exiting the bus, Kotone was finally able to stretch, her body sore from one of her solo promotions that involved having a K-pop random dance battle against other idols. The battle itself lasting over an hour, Kotone sadly getting eliminated after tiring out.
Big slender hands were suddenly placed on her shoulders, causing her to tense up and swiftly turn around at the culprit. Jiwoo stared back at her in suprise, hands held up in surrender. “Sorry about that. It looked like you needed a massage and I guess my body reacted before my brain did.”
Kotone felt her face flush, truly caught off-guard by Jiwoo’s attentive nature. “I-it’s fine, I was just caught off guard.” Kotone looked away, unable to look at Jiwoo’s face. Coughing into her fist, she rapidly added, “You can continue if you’d like.” Having turned away from Jiwoo, she couldn’t see her reaction, only hearing a hum before those hands were once again on her shoulders.
It honestly felt nice, Jiwoo’s strong hands helping her relax, not realizing just how tense she was before. Truly, the most relaxed she’s felt in days, probably weeks. If Kotone was a cat, she would for sure be purring in contempt.
Attendance was taken and their staff started explaining the safety plan. Along with reminding them to record throughout the night. Jiwoo continued the massage throughout the brief, moving down to her shoulderblades.
Kaede’s smug face soon found her line of sight, not saying anything, just observing the two with that shit-eating grin. Kotone once again found her cheeks flushing, this time feeling her ears burn up as well. She glared back, hoping Jiwoo didn’t notice the two Japanese having a staring contest.
Finally, after 5 long minutes, they were set free. Soomin immediately dragging her partner, Yooyeon, followed closely by Yeonji who was paired up with Nakyoung. Seems like those four also decided to group together, although Kotone knew Nakyoung would’ve followed Yooyeon no matter who her partner was.
Kotone glanced back at Jiwoo, who was now adjusting her phone on the selfie stick they were given, chatting with Yubin while Jiyeon was nowhere to be found. They agreed on Jiwoo filming their vlog, as she had the longer and steadier arms of the two. Seemingly Jiyeon was to film too, seeing as Yubin had her hands in her coat pockets, no phone mount in sight.
Looking forward once more, Kotone saw Kaede and Mayu walking towards her. Sighing she braced herself, knowing both of them appearing would not produce a casual conversation.
“Very interesting that you let Jiwoo give you a massage, yet poor Mayu here has to beg for even a hug.” Kaede said in Japanese, not out of the ordinary as the Japanese line liked to speak in their native language when not filming.
“You two never let me be affectionate, you two can learn a thing or two from Lynn-chan.” Mayu whined. Although the two younger Japanese knew Mayu meant well, they still refused to accept her overly affectionate flirting and hugs. “I just can’t believe Jiwoo holds a special place in your heart Tone-chan. My Tsundere #1 falling in love so young, it’s only a matter of time til Tsundere #2 follows.” Mayu said, wiping fake tears away, leaning heavily onto Kaede, causing said girl to scoff and push Mayu away.
“Just let us know how your “date” goes.” Kaede smirked, walking away, pulling the still fake crying girl along with her. Leaving Kotone frozen, perplexed at their comments.
“IT’S NOT A DATE AND I’M NOT IN LOVE!” Kotone yelled out at the two retreating figures, sighing deeply before turning back to her group. She jumped back when she saw 3 pairs of eyes staring at her in confusion. It wasn’t everyday they saw the Japanese girl yell at the other two. Actually, they never saw Kotone lose her cool with them, usually small quips but nothing like this.
Yubin spoke up first, a bit apprehensive, “Um, what was that even about. We heard Jiwoo and Lynn’s name.” Kotone froze, not knowing how to respond. Racking up her brain for anything, she spat out the first thing that came to her, “They were comparing my height to Jiwoo’s, saying I should've been tall like Lynn-chan.” Really, out of all things, she just had to mention her shortness, something she hated acknowledging, especially when she had to be between any of their taller members. Usually Xinyu and Jiwoo.
“Well, I think your height is perfect. Makes you look cute.” Jiwoo murmured, scratching her cheek, ears tuning bright red. Kotone could only stare in shock, not expecting her to be so straight-forward.
“Aww, little Jiwoo is flirting.” Yubin screeched out, making kissy faces at her best friend. “Yah, we’re the same age. Besides, I’m great at flirting.” Jiwoo scoffed out, trying to avoid Yubin’s kisses.
“Sure you are. That’s why you’re in a committed relationship, oh wait.” Yubin countered, looking blankly at Jiwoo, who only glared back. Truly a low blow it seemed, as silence filled the air.
“How about we start our trip?” Jiyeon quickly added. “We’re the only ones still here.” True to Jiyeon’s word, their group was the only one here. Everyone was gone, leaving only the managers who were lazing on seats nearby.
“Alright, let’s go then.” Seems like the comment did get to Jiwoo, as her jaw was clenched and eyes set straight forward, not looking at any of them.
Truthfully, Kotone was slightly scared, never having seen the younger girl this agitated. Yet, she went up and interlocked their arms and started walking towards the entrance. Feeling Jiwoo tense up before relaxing into Kotone. Making the older girl feel warm and fuzzy, glad she was able to ease the younger girl, even slightly.
Jiwoo soon pressed record on her phone, easily switching her idol persona on, explaining their trip to WAVs. Kotone would add a comment here and there but she mainly let Jiwoo take the reins, enjoying her soft voice. They rode a few rides with the couple, and played a couple fair games, Yubin deciding to turn it into a competition.
Jiwoo and Kotone won in the end, luck on their side. Well, mainly luck for Kotone. Jiwoo was able to skillfully win at every game, Kotone managing to succeed with sheer determination, truly competitive in nature.
Kotone did catch Jiwoo staring intently out of the corner of her eye a couple times, making the Japanese want to impress the Korean. Something in her chest craving that attention, wanting Jiwoo to complement her once more.
Soon after, Yubin had admitted defeat, excusing herself along with Jiyeon, stating they were too tired and wanted to eat. Seemed like it was an excuse to finally have some alone time as a couple but neither complained at their weak excuse.
“Want to grab food soon?” Jiwoo asked softly. Not receiving a response, she approached the Japanese playing another game, seeing pure concentration Kotone had in an attempt to win a Kuromi plush. Kotone just had to knock down all 3 bottle stacks, easy right? Yet, 3 attempts passed, each worse than the last, frustration getting to Kotone.
Gritting her teeth, a small growl escaped her throat. Taking a deep breath in and out, Kotone finally released her last ball.
The duo watched in anticipation as the ball headed towards the stacked bottles.
The ball completely missed the stack. Disappointment squeezed heavily in her chest. Staring dejectedly at the hanging Kuromi she would never own.
“1 game please.” A soft but determined voice brought Kotone out of her pity. Doing a double take at Jiwoo who was rolling her shoulders. Kotone was perplexed. Why would Jiwoo play this game? None of her favorite characters were present as prizes. This game was just a scam anyways, designed to eat up the money visitors would throw in an attempt to please their egos.
Yet Kotone watched in fascination as Jiwoo easily knocked over the first stack, the 2nd ball also hitting the intended target with ease. Jiwoo positioned herself in front of the last stack, rolling her shoulders back again before finally launching the last ball.
Three more bottles fell over as the ball landed squarely.
Kotone was shocked. How was Jiwoo good at every game? How was her accuracy consistent in all three throws? Was there anything Jiwoo was bad at? Kotone truly could not grasp the unfairness, the universe truly favoring Jiwoo and maxing out all her skill stats.
Jiwoo was soon handed over the giant Kuromi, turning over to the Japanese and presenting it to her with the widest smile Kotone had seen on the girl.
Hesitantly reaching out, Kotone felt the soft fabric meet her fingertips. “Why?”
“I couldn’t bear to see you look so sad.” Jiwoo responded coolly, warmth spreading all over Kotone’s face. “You deserve a reward too after helping me defeat Yubin.”
Kotone was stunned. Not knowing how to react. No one had gone out of their way before to give her something so small yet so meaningful to her. Next thing she knew, Kotone was hugging the taller girl. Strong arms shortly hugging her back, causing Kotone to further relax.
Kaede was right, Jiwoo felt safe. She felt like the comfort that Kotone had been craving for so long. She felt like home.
Realizing minutes had passed, Kotone stepped back. Looking up at the taller girl, all she saw was a soft smile directed at her.
“Wow, we’re gone for 10 minutes and yet it seems like we missed 5 episodes of this drama.” Yubin’s hoarse voice broke the illusion Kotone was in. Both putting more distance between each other, eyes shifting everywhere but at the other.
“We were just celebrating, nothing else.” Kotone has spit out, not wanting to seem soft in front of the couple.
“Sureee, whatever you say Tone-chan.” Jiyeon responded this time, eyes full of doubt, not believing anything the Japanese had said.
“Anyways, we have to go soon. The managers are starting to walk around, rounding everyone up.”
With that, the four headed towards the exit. Kotone tuning out the Yubin and Jiyeon, instead the memory of Jiwoo’s smile and hug playing on repeat.
Soon, they made it to the bus, tired chatter reaching Kotone’s ears. Seems like LotteWorld had tired out the group. Getting on, she could see the maknaes passed out in the front seats. The older members already on the bus barely holding onto consciousness, attempting to keep themselves up with small talk.
Kotone, still holding the Kuromi, felt herself slowly drift off once she got comfortable in her seat. Contempt at everything that occurred, and Jiwoo once again invading her mind, Kotone fell asleep with a small smile on her face.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kotone woke up to the sound of her alarm. She originally had a solo schedule again but was cancelled due to the host falling ill. So now, her alarm was blaring, waking her up at 8 am on an off-day.
Finally managing to turn off the alarm, she rolled onto her other side, attempting to doze off again. Yet a few minutes passed and Kotone was still wide awake. She sighed, cursing her mind in refusing to let the idol actually sleep on her rare day off.
With a groan, she sat up. Getting out of bed to start her morning routine. Her body was still slightly sore, yet a lot more manageable thanks to the quick massage she got yesterday. Before she could dwell any longer on that specific member, she noticed she was the only one in the room. Her roommates were all gone, which was odd as all of them liked to sleep in and no one had any schedules last she checked.
Hesitantly, she walked out of her room, a sweet scent hitting her senses. A scent that reminded her of home, it smelled familiar yet she couldn’t pinpoint it. With newfound curiosity, the Japanese girl walked towards the kitchen.
Smooth, melodic humming blessed her ears the closer she got to her destination. Rounding the corner, she saw a tall figure facing away from her. Despite the oversized hoodie and beanie covering their hair, she was able to immediately figure out who the culprit was. A warm feeling filled her, a feeling not foreign yet something she never looked into.
Kotone felt relaxed, at ease, seeing the younger girl move around so effortlessly in the kitchen. The Japanese girl was entranced, not noticing that she also started humming the same melody Jiwoo was until the girl tensed up and faced Kotone.
“Oh hey. I hope I didn’t wake you.” Jiwoo stood tall, holding a plate of Taiyaki, the cause for the comforting smell.
“Nah, you’re good. It was an alarm I originally set for my cancelled schedule.” Kotone’s thick Japanese accent slipped out due to not fully being awake.
Jiwoo chuckled, hearing her accent. Kotone’s accent had diminished over time, yet came out at certain times, especially when she was still half-asleep.
“Well, since you’re here. I hope you can help me by taste testing these and letting me know what I need to improve on.” Jiwoo set the plate in front of the Japanese, before turning back towards the oven.
Kotone glanced at the Taiyaki, not remembering the last time she had one. Taking one in her hand, she took a bite from the head, the taste of red bean filling her mouth.
Truly, she doesn’t know how the Korean could improve this recipe. Kotone felt nostalgia with every bite, proving once again to the Japanese the length Jiwoo would go to stay as faithful as she could with foreign recipes.
“I think I could just marry you, you make me feel right at home.” Kotone let out a groan of satisfaction as she finished her Taiyaki.
Jiwoo turned red, choking on her spit at the comment. Hands wringing on front of her, eyes shifting every so often.
“Actually, can I talk to you Kotone unnie.” Jiwoo asked, looking more nervous at each passing second. The Japanese girl knew Jiwoo was serious, as she never really called her Kotone, usually Tone unnie or just unnie. So she nodded her head, mouth still full of red bean paste.
“I was truthfully going to confess a different way, but you got up earlier than I planned.” Jiwoo chuckled nervously. “Please just hear me out unnie.” Again, Kotone could only nod, not trusting her voice. She now had a suspicion of what was to come.
“I-I have liked you. Liked you more than a friend. Liked you since we started our promotions for EVOLution.” Jiwoo started shakily but her voice grew bolder at every word. “You were patient with me when helping me with my dance, and truly listened to my frustrations. You were there when I was absorbed in my studies, reminding me to take breaks, even bringing me fruit and water. You were always there, a silent shoulder to lean on. I appreciated that.”
Kotone was stunned, mouth open at the confession, not expecting Jiwoo to keep going. “Soon, I started to look for you in every situation. Wanting to make you laugh, to impress you. To be the reason you would smile. I truly am glad to have you in my life, Kotone-unnie.” Jiwoo’s voice cracked with her final sentence, confidence leaving her body as she fisnihed.
Kotone was speechless. She had never been confessed to like this. No one had liked her for her actions, usually wanting to date her due to her looks. Commenting on her face and body before even thinking about her personality.
Kotone didn’t know how to respond, not good at expressing herself with words, so she instead did it with actions.
She pulled the taller girl into a tight embrace. Pouring all her emotions into the hug, hoping to convey what she was feeling to the Korean. “I may not be great with words, especially Korean, but I want you to know that I like you too.” Kotone pulled back, looking up at the Jiwoo. “I hope you can be patient with me, but I want to try this out. I want to be with you. I want to keep being someone you can depend on and I want to be your safe space.” Kotone glanced away before putting her focus on Jiwoo again.
“Will you be my girlfriend Lee Jiwoo?”
Jiwoo raised her eyebrows before ultimately laughing. Trying to stop herself but failing each time. “I’m sorry, but that sounded too much like a marriage proposal, but yes Kamimoto Kotone, I will be your girlfriend.” Truly living up to her image, Jiwoo continued laughing, Kotone joining in too.
~~
“You said you wanted to confess a different way?” The two had finally calmed down, moving into the living room, cuddling on the couch.
“Yeah, I had also baked cookies, and I wanted to write my confession on there originally but you walked in before I could get started.”
“Well, it’s a good thing I walked in, it would have taken 50 cookies to write your confession on there.” Kotone teased.
Rolling her eyes, Jiwoo could only scoff, "Obviously it would have been shorter than what I told you, but I’m glad you saved me from the hand cramps.”