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Scene : 10

Social media meltdown

Settings: Life and Wellness Clinic

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After a very disturbing and nerve-wracking morning, Ahri rushed to work and hoped she could get through the day. She and J-Hope decided to keep a low profile today, as she will be attending a concert with Sori tomorrow. However, she is currently focused on completing her appointments to prevent her thoughts from drifting to the dating scandal.

Ahri and J-Hope tried to be brave, but she realized the scrutiny in his hometown would be more severe. She can't imagine the hate he will receive from his people. Korea has a scandal problem.

Local netizens don't tolerate their idols getting into dating relationships. How can the celebrities be truly happy, especially K-pop idols? They have a life, and this parasocial behavior of obsessed fans needs to stop. They need to get a life.

Her coworkers, who instantly recognized that it was both her and J-Hope, wanted all the details as soon as she stepped into her office. Ahri inhaled deeply as the weight of what she got into started to become heavier.

Is it worth her mental health being with a global star, watched and scrutinized by many? Naomi and Theo were beyond elated about the new developments.

Naomi grinned while standing in her doorway with a cup of coffee, saying, "I told you... you guys have had chemistry since the beginning.You were bonding over a dead portrait.'

Ahri sat back in her chair. "It's so surreal, Noami. J-Hope is a real human being that needs his privacy. People even talk about his laugh and...those adorable dimples above his smile. Even his veiny hands and----"

Noami's eyes widen. "Oh my gosh! You're so whipped for Hobi. Sorry, girl, you went beyond being an ARMY fan. You're getting further than any fan."

Ahri snort and roll her eyes," They take it way out of propotion, I just wanted to treat him to an authentic korean meal here in the US.He loved it; even his bodyguards liked the treat. Ajumma Seulgi from the restaurant gave us the meal on the house. I think she secretly knows who BTS was."

Naomi nodded."Don't worry, girl, it will blow over. He is leaving Chicago for Mexico City. At least you have a fond memory to tell your kids one day."

"Yeah, like my maternal grandmother, who still has an autograph on her hanky by Elton John from the Beatlemania days." She snorted.

Ahri just smirks, and then Theo runs into her office, standing next to Noami and looking at them with excited eyes.

"You have to see this...it's not only E-news that got the scoop, but global entertainment news, even in Asia."

Ahri's jaw dropped in surprise as she leapt up from her leather chair, exclaiming, "What!"

She and Naomi both sprint-walked after a very excited Theo to their shared receptionist area.

The TV was on mute because the receptionist wasn't at her desk.

It was SBS news from South Korea. She insisted that Sheryl install an Asian network for her and Naomi to see what was happening in their worlds.

The TV segment was from the English component of SBS news; an Asian male anchor looked too thrilled reporting on a BTS so-called dating scandal in America.

The three of you saw the caption.

Breaking news:Is J-Hope secretly dating in Chicago?

Once again, the same image that circulated worldwide-a grainy photo of J-Hope and another person across from each other, smiling and grilling Korean BBQ-shows them looking very happy and comfortable. To any fan, it is obvious that they appear to be a happy, in-love couple. The black cap conceals her face. Gosh! She felt the fear in her heart escalating; this is huge. What makes J-Hope so famous? Some of the American artists don't get this exposure unless they're P. Diddy.

The receptionist,Merle came out of the little office door, and her amber eyes widened at the three of their transfixed eyes on the screen. She let out a small gasp. Her little finger trembled in your direction.

"Dr. Ahri...that's...that's you. Isn't it? Oh,boy! You didn't tell us you were so tight with BTS!"

Ahri grabs the remote quickly and unmutes just in time to hear the anchor say breezily.

"...and the K-pop world is in full meltdown mode, just after this cozy dinner photo of BTS's J-Hope and a mysterious woman surfaced in Chicago. The couple allegedly knew each other, and several media sources speculated that J-hope looked too comfortable with the woman. The identity of the woman is yet to be determined, but according to sources near the couple , she might be a worker at an art museum. Could romance be in the air, or is this the long-awaited 3rd chapter in the lives of BTS career path...marriage and family...stay tuned for more info...."

Her phone was buzzing again in her pocket, but this time Ahri just opened it and looked at the notifications.

There were almost 40 unread messages from friends, family, and acquaintances; her group chats were exploding; one of Soris's and her Twitter mentions were on fire. She was never this popular in her 27 years of existence, but one simple dinner with a renowned star propelled her to instant 'visibility.'

It was too late to hide. Her co-workers looked at her with renewed eyes but also a little apprehension. They know Ahri is a very secluded, private introvert, and so much public exposure can be detrimental to her mental health.

Noami and Theo quickly stood side by side to her and embraced her tightly when they saw her starting to hyperventilate. She was just staring frozen at the TV until another nurse entered the office quietly and said in a casual manner, "So..., when's the wedding?'

Three sets of eyes abruptly turned with a deadpan expression.

During the day Naomi and Theo found themselves indulged in social media, and Ahri decided to just ghost everyone in her chat groups. She's even too fearful to answer her mom. Nothing is confirmed. She is still safe, and nobody knows her true identity.

She wondered if she must just refrain from seeing Hobi anymore. But deep inside she knows she was way too emotional invested, and he is interested in her. How can she fight destiny?

She just sat in her office with her head downcast, not knowing what to do. She felt so tired, and now she needs some solitude, maybe a chat with her beloved portraits just to calm her racing mind and heart. She just wants to finish her shift, and this happened.

She opened her phone when she got a notification during lunchtime. It was a private DM from Jhope.

Jhope: Ahri I'm so sorry this happened. Are you okay? I really didn't think they would spot us at that corner table. Even your tote bag became a hot topic."

Ahri just looked apprehensive upon reading the message and didn't respond immediately.She laid her head on the table and inhaled deeply to regulate her racing heart. Talking to Hobi makes her heart flutter so much that she feels the need to take a moment to breathe deeply. rereads it a few times.

Then she inhaled and then typed her response.

Ahri: I didn't even see a flash. I need an upgrade to my iphone. How in the world did they do that? Their clarity was almost otherworldly, as if it came from Venus. Yeah, I'm okay ...now. I just didn't anticipate that I would be consuming E-news before my morning coffee. You okay... J-Hope.

Jhope: I'm fine... I'm accustomed to dealing with such rumors and speculation! So, Museum Girl, don't worry about me. HYBE is working on it.

Ahri: It appears that our brief friendship has come to an end. Someone will pressure you to deny knowing me or simply erase my existence from your life. I apologize for adding stress to your life, Hobi. I shouldn't have taken you out. But I just wanted to thank you for everything you have done for both Sori and me.

Jhope: I just wanted to check on you first. I understand that this isn't your world, Ahri, and I apologize for forcing you into it so suddenly. I didn't think.

Ahri: Thank you...it's just so surreal. For example, Sori texted me as if I had committed a federal crime. And Netizens have already started calling me 'Mona Lisa Mystery Girl.'

Jhope: This is what happens when you date a celebrity. But Ahri, I'm just a guy who likes a cute girl and wants to spend more time with her. I'm determined to keep you in my life. I told you that I'm here to stay, and you became my anchor outside of the entertainment world.

Ahri: It is so intense.

J-Hope: Haha, it is, but not always. I don't want to miss an opportunity to see you.Our planned visit to the museum is still scheduled. I need to ask Mona what she thinks about the situation. So, are you in?

Ahri: I actually miss the portraits. I never really stop seeing them. But are you sure? American paparazzi are relentless, like boneless hounds.

Jhope: I don't care. It's our lives, and we should control what others see, rather than allowing fans or media sources to dictate it. I want us to talk in person. Whatever happens, let it be...we can have dinner afterwards. My surprise, don't worry.

Ahri: What time do you want to meet?

JHope: After 6pm, when the museum closed.

Ahri:I am going to wear two different hats this time.

Jhope: I'll bring you a different one. Don't worry. And Ahri...there's no turning back. You're too deep right now.

Ahri: I can see that. Okay...deal.

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Scene : 11

Love, Framed

Settings: Art Institute of Chicago

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The portrait hall was quiet, and the soft, illuminated lights made the whole room look mysterious, filled with timeless elegance and history.

Ahri was surprised to see the museum truly empty by 6pm. A bodyguard was standing in one of the archways, scanning around the area. Ahri nodded, confused, and strolled further down to the Portrait Hall, where there was a replica of the Mona Lisa painted by a pop art artist. Her eyes widened as she saw J-Hope walking slowly towards her. Despite the raging dating scandal online, he had a huge smile on his face.

Her soft smile met him as he looked appreciatively over her attire. Ahri blushed bright red. She wore a trendy mini pleated skirt dress with a white collar today. She wore her hair parted and glossy over her shoulders.

Small diamond earrings adorned her ears, complementing her delicately made-up face. Her legs were bare with adorable black flats. When she learned that it felt like a date, she went home to put more effort into her appearance. But if it gets a little colder later, she was holding her favorite beige trench coat and her signature Mona Lisa tote bag.

J-Hope looked very fashionable in his signature baggy clothes. He had a light tan LV cap on, with a beige bomber jacket from a well-known luxury designer and his dark brown LV sling bag with his acorn keychain. He looked so cool with his white mask.

"Wow...you look so cool, Mr. Hot K-pop Star." She teased.

"How's my 'pretty girl' doing? You look stunning, Ahri." His eyes were smiling affectionately in hers. Ahri just chuckles softly, gently links her arm with his, and leads him to the inside of the Portrait Hall. She was surprised to see no museum staff in sight.

"You look a little concerned," Jhope grinned.

"Yeah...I don't see Reggie, the museum security guard, or Alfie, the janitor, anywhere.' Ahri scanned the place and looked at the amused star.

J-Hope smiled, "Don't worry...I've booked the place for at least two hours. So all the staff are prohibited from entering this section. It's only us and my entourage."

Ahris' eyes were wide."Oh wow! The power of celebrity. Well, in that case, let's go meet the queen of the Portraits."

Jhope pulled off his mask and grinned. "Well, lead the way...your majesty is waiting. I hope her criticism is not too harsh."

Ahri laughed softly as they stood in front of the Mona Lisa. She turned to Jhope. "Okay...I'm going to touch your eyes, and then you must empty your mind. Imagine scrolling through TikTok at 2 am."

Jhope obeyed and closed his eyes; her soft hands touched his eyes fleetingly. Jhopes inhaled her floral scent as she stood in his personal space. ARMY would kill to be this close to the idol.

Suddenly, the painting started to shimmer subtly. Mona's mouth quirked slightly more than usual. Her eyes had a subtle glow in them.

"Mona," she said to the portrait, "this is Jung Hoseok... remember the person in Paris?"

Mona, blink twice. Jhope stepped back, shocked , and looked at you.

"Is he the one who was brave enough to sing a song about me" said a velvety voice.

Ahri nodded solemnly and turned to a pale Hoseok. He experienced a painting slightly moving with Whistler's Mother. But he can actually faintly hear Mona's voice. Wow! The idea was beyond his comprehension.

J-Hope looked half-terrified and half-fascinated as he cleared his throat. "Mona Lisa ...it was meant to be a compliment, like a tribute to your beauty."

Mona Lisa's smile widened, and Ahri started to giggle,"Oh yes...quite peculiar lyrics...🎶I like my girls pretty in the face...art to frame...🎶hmm. Am I pretty, Hoseok?"

Jhope gasped, shocked, "Of cause...but how do you know all that? The music video is not yet released. I might sing the unreleased song tomorrow night."

Ahri grinned. "She's nosy; remember, she communicates and eavesdrops through her brushstrokes. I'd say she's quite impressed that she made it again into pop culture. She said she loved Nat King Cole's version as well. I never heard that version, though."

Mona's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Ah, 1950 was a truly iconic year for me. That song remained on the Billboard chart for eight weeks and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in a Motion Picture. The lyrics were incredibly romantic: 🎶Mona Lisa...Mona Lisa, men have named you...you are so like the lady with the mystic smile...🎶 You see, I will always be a source of inspiration."."

Mona turned her gaze on him, staring him down until he felt nervous; Ahri just stood there, amused that her gift worked on him. His affection towards her made him 'see,' "Hoseok, you did alright, but I would've loved some French mystique and a little less of those energetic hip-thrusts." She muttered haughtily.

Ahri burst out in laughter, "Oh my gosh...Jhope, she's roasting you, and she's from the 1500s."

Jhope muttered, amazed, "Unbelievable, I got judged by a 500-year-old portrait whose skincare consists of dust."

Mona grinned, "Ahri, he is a keeper. I approve..."

Ahri just smirks, "He's quite the looker...also, even if he is Mr. Hips of Destiny."

Jhope laughed softly, then he suddenly became serious, making the energy in the room shift. "Mona...what I'm about to do now , I hope you will approve wholeheartedly..."

Ahri looked perplexed at the star as Jhope took her hands in his. He inhaled deeply as they stood there alone, in front of a smiling , smug painting. Mona's eyes were shining as if she held a very deep secret. She herself was a masterpiece.

Jhope turned again to Ahri, inhaled deeply as he looked into Ahri's inquiring eyes, and said, 'Ahri...these almost three weeks that I got to know you through museum visits and secret texts every day and every night made me realize one thing...I don't want to walk this path alone anymore..."

Ahris' breath hitched as she looked with awe in his eyes as he continued to be vulnerable before her as he gently lifted his hand and cupped her face, his thumb caressing over her soft, velvety skin. Ahri gazed at him, filled with a profound sense of shock. The gentle and tender expression in his eyes made her own eyes tear up.

"Ahri I know we're still new to all of this, but I know what I want and need. Please be with me...as my girlfriend. Let's walk this path together--?"

Ahris' eyes widen; the silence was deafening. There were no cameras, no screaming fans...just him. Vulnerable as somebody opening his heart to a weird girl, she's not even in his league; she's not famous or very beautiful...it was the first time someone saw her as their hope, their future. Her accomplishments, intellect, or beauty didn't matter; she was simply Kang Ahri.

He stepped closer, his eyes fixed on hers as he gently slid his arms around her small waist. His voice was soft in a whispering tone, and he leaned forward, his forehead almost brushing against hers, her eyes never wavering. "Ahri...I've never felt this way before. "He murmured softly, Your presence makes me realize what I missed. You give me a reason to smile, wake up to face another rigorous day, and make everything quieter...even better. Please give me a chance..."

Ahris' lips trembled in a soft and gentle smile as she nodded. Her eyes filled with deep emotions.

Her voice trembled as she looked up at the idols' vulnerable eyes. "I never thought someone like you would see someone like me," she whispered softly, her arms gently snaking around his waist. "You don't know how many times I've been overlooked, ignored, or considered not worth knowing. However, you, Jung Hoseok, are the first person who truly saw me and did not mock my peculiar gift." Ahri sniffed still stunned by the revelation that Jhope, global star fell for her.

Jhope's expression softened as his thumb brushed away a lone tear. "Ahri...when I see you...I see strength, kindness, and a glowing soul. You must never think you're invisible...you matter so much to me."

Ahri gulped, "I was so afraid to open my heart and to love. But you want me to give love a chance."

Jhope's eyes turned serious as he pulled her softly against his. "Then let me be the one to give you a safety net. Let me protect you. I'm so in love with you. Not as BTS's J-Hope or the K-pop idol. Just me, Hoseok," he muttered quietly, "I'll protect you from the entertainment world's noise. I'll be the arms ready to forbid you to run too when you need to have rest. I'll be that for you."

Ahri looked up in his sincerity. "You promise.'

He was nodded with sincerity", I promise. Regardless of my destination or the intensity of external influences such as media, scrutiny, or fans, I will always make time and space for you. I'm so in love with you right now."

Ahri smiled and nodded. "Then...I'll be walking a path with you, and yes, Jung Hoseok, I'll be your girlfriend."

The elation and happiness that emanated from the idol was electrifying, and just there in front of a smug portrait, J-Hope leaned in and brushed his lips tenderly over hers, soft and tender like an innocent first kiss. Ahri smiled into his kiss as she snaked her arms around his neck and kissed him back with the same tenderness.

After a few moments of utter bliss in Jhope's arms, he surprised her with a private romantic dinner in the museum's private lounge, surrounded by regal portraits and century-old histories. They sat at a round table; there was a single orchid in a crystal case between them. He was so thoughtful when he arranged a surprise dinner with crispy, spicy Korean fried chicken, kimchi stew, and two chilled bottles of soju.

They were thrilled to be in each other's company when J-Hope poured her a drink. They were chatting softly about art, dance, and their dreams. Their affections for each other are no longer a secret touch or glance but are open.

As dessert came , a succulent and sweet tteok with honey drizzle. One of their managers arranged it for the star. It was a very exciting time for them to see the star truly starting to fall in love unexpectedly, and they were all for it, no matter the agencies' sentiments.

While they drink a few glasses of their beverage, Jhope takes a slender velvet box out of his jacket pocket.

He nervously gives it to her, "Ahri, one more thing...this is for you." He opens it slowly in front of her astonished eyes.

Ahris's eyes widened as she looked at the exquisite piece. It was a breathtaking bracelet from Fred's jewelry. Delicate with elegance," Jin-hyung helped me choose it. He admitted it," he said." He is the first one that actually knows about you. So I wanted something that shines...like you."

Ahri gasped as she touched it with trembling hands,"Wow...it's so beautiful."

Jhope whispered, "You are darling, and you are mine, if you have me." He smiled as he fastened it around her small wrist. It shone in the illuminated light in the lounge.

Ahri looked up with teary eyes. "I'll have you, Hobi... I'm scared, but I'm willing to walk side by side with you."

He stood up and came around to her side, took her hand, and let her slip again into his arms, embracing her small posture warmly against Thank you, Ahri, for being with me---" He looked down on her smiling face, tilted her chin up, and kissed her softly on her soft lips.

Behind them, Mona was smiling , approving , enchanted, and even amused. Watching their tender moment, Mona Lisa just arched her brow and murmured, "Finally some real chemistry...gosh, it took you long enough to discard that title of forever professionally single.'"

A nearby portrait, Frida Kahlo crossed her arms and snorted, "About time...now pass the soju. I thought, I'll be watching another tragic love story with no happy ending for another 70 years."

Meanwhile, the American Gothic couple, who stood stoic and stiff with the pitchfork, looked at each other as the old woman looked at her husband with a deadpan look,"Harold can you even remember what romance was like?"

Harold just rolled his eyes. 'All I remember is the amount of chores."

The portraits just smiled as they felt the happiness of the couple enveloped in the atmosphere.

Mr. Lee and Hobeom were secretly beaming at the pure elation in Jhope's eyes and demeanor. Hybe had their sources working overnight to do a thorough background check on the girl Hobi was openly in love with. Even his performances and aura took on a new change. He was more energetic during rehearsals. And tomorrow night he will be performing his Mona Lisa track before the official release the next week.

The museum curator smiled as he came out of his office to let the star and his companion leave at the side doors, away from prying eyes.

Jhope placed his mask on, and Hobeom gave Ahri one of Hobi's LV caps. She put on her trench coat, and with her hands tightly in Hobi's hands , she was accompanied first to her little Kia.

Jhope smiled softly as he leaned towards her window, caressing her cheek. "Darling, please drive safely. I'll call you tonight. Okay. I'm looking forward to your presence at the concert."

Ahri smiled softly and took his palm, giving it a soft kiss, and nodded.

"Okay...be safe too---"

Unbeknownst to the little group, a paparazzi was hidden behind cars to take live altering photos since Jhope discreetly arrived few hours ago and just now when they were leaving.

A other dating scandal was brewing... evidences spoke louder than bombs.

When Ahri returned back to her Apartment. Sori was already asleep on her bed among her history books. Ahri smiled affectionately as she gazed on her pink haired snoring sister.

Soris life is about to change. Without her knowledge she will become part of the ARMYs interest. She will be stalked, photographs and her journey to become an actress will become so much easier, based on her fame by association.

Will her family be ready for it? Being with the boy from one of the most and biggest boy group in the world will change her life drastically. Is she ready to launch into the unknown.

A world so far from her structured, medical academic world. Will she be mentally prepared to face external entities that might be against her.

All she knows is that she is truly in love with the star and not him as a BTS member or a sold out solo star. But as Jung Hoseok, the sunny and optimistic guy who gave her his heart and trusting her not to hurt or to break it.

She sighed as she removed the books quietly from the bed, took the thick red comforter and draped it gently over a sisters frame. Ahri switched of the light as well as closing the curtains and strolled out from the bedroom.

Empty pizza boxes and soda cans were sprawling all over the living room, so after a light clean up. She went to her room to take a aromatic bath and with great contentment she giddily went to bed when she saw a notification from her boyfriend.

She even sent her parents a message and told her she'll explain later....

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Scene : 12

PR intervension

Settings: Hybe in Korea

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Meanwhile..Photos already ciculated...

J-Hope's PR team was vigorously trying to salvage the rumors. Hybe America and Hybe Korea were trying to blow out the raging fires of speculation. ARMY wants clear answers, and even social influencers from TikTok and YouTube grabbed the opportunity to ride on the coattails of this speculation.

In the 16th-floor office afternoon when the news broke through. Some of Bighit and BTS's personal PR team were seated around a private office discussing ways to salvage the situation.

Manager Kim looked at the PR manager ,"Did anyone schedule a public appearance for Jhope this week?"

Manager Seo shook his head, a phone in his hands. "No, he was just scheduled for some interviews later next week; he was invited to an NBA game in LA in two weeks, a Louis Vuitton fashion shoot, and some minor promotions for the LV brand. A fashion shoot as ambassador, etc... He wants to visit some local shops and eat cuisines, and a street performance in different locations is scheduled but not confirmed. Like behind-the-scenes footage. There will be fan events and backstage meet and greets for VIP fans."

Manager Kim, "Who is the girl? We need to know where and how they met. Is she a factor, her background and whereabouts? Will she negatively impact his career...ASAP!"

The PR manager nodded, and she was typing vigorously on her laptop, phone in hand. Her eyes seemed serious. "I just confirmed with Mr. Lee in Chicago. Apparently Hoseok met her during his MV shoot in Paris. She was actually talking to a portrait...which is some kind of funny. She and our boy spoke, and I think he liked or trusted her enough to become friends with her... Mr. Lee also informed us that she is a doctor by profession. Also surprisingly an Asian-American. That's all I know." She sighed.

Manager Seo." So she's not staff or an affiliated artist. Did Manager Hobeom shed any further light?"

The PR manager was speaking to him on the phone while the other managers responded to news agencies that wanted the full scoop and to verify their facts. Hybe was just diplomatic. They didn't deny or confirm the rumors, which are not actually rumors.

The PR Manager nodded,"Manager Hobeom confirmed the mentioned dinner with the friend off the record. It was low profile, but unfortunately the American media in Chicago already posted and aired the footage online and on their national TV stations. It's no longer low-profile...and the photo of them leaving the museum hand in hand will be difficult to deny"

Just then the legal rep answered, "The dinner photos are grainy, but with good technology, the picture can be upscaled, and a clear view of the girl could be displayed, but again they were caught outside the museum. But it was late evening. We don't have to respond with an official statement unless it escalates. For now all we can do is monitor the ARMY's sentiments and the antis on social media , check and flag any new media posts, and we'll draft a neutral response just in case."

The creative director grinned, "Jhope is an adult, and if they're dating...I think it's honestly so cute. But...right now it's not the right time. He needs to be focused because he still has a few shows in North America and Asia."

Manager Kim looked a little concerned. "If she's important to him, I don't think we will be able to make him step away. We need to get Mr. Bangs input on a way forward...gosh, managing stars is tiring."

.

🎨🎨🎨🎨

A/h Ahri and Jhope became a couple.

Thank you for your interest in this book.😊

1. What are your thoughts on this chapter?

Some Hobi h🔥ness

https://youtu.be/kW1e8NtdW90