˖✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Scene : 13

Aftermath

Settings: Apartment

°˖✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Ahri stood up revitalized and with a joyful heart. She had to pinch herself to make sure she wasn't hallucinating about being Jhope—her Hobi's official girlfriend. The Fred jewelry box on her bedside spoke otherwise. She was giddy when she woke up.

Things become too heated knowing about her being with Jhope. But luckily no one seemed to know her real identity. She told Sori that she will come home earlier from work so that they can be ready for the final show at the Allstate Theatre. She can believe that she is secretly dating the BTS star. She only sent her mom a vague text that she'll explain later. Her mom is li
ke an energized squirrel, and she won't let go of an issue. Typical attorney.

Ahri was busy stirring her coffee when Sori strolled begrudgingly into the kitchen. She was wearing her BT21 character  shorty pajama , forcefully inherited out of her sister's cupboard. She was yawning widely, eyes still tired, and her dark pink hair was in a high bun. Ahri just smirks at her pretty sister. She looked like their mom, but she was fairer, as Ahri had beautiful honey-glow skin. Sori had light brown eyes with slight almond eyes, not like Ahri, who was her Asian dad's facial card.

But Ahri could see she looked satisfied and content after a whole day of study. She can't wait to complete senior year and go to South Korea to study at SNU or become an actress trainee. Luckily, both of them are proficient in Korean. Her dad made sure they learned everything about South Korea and its culture.

Sori grinned as she plopped down on the kitchen island bar chair. "You came so late last night... I've ordered some pizza for me." She rubbed her eyes as she reached for her favorite, Peanut Butter Crunch, and poured some in a bowl. Two tubs of strawberry yogurt was on the table, with fresh cut fruit of pineapple, kiwis,  melon and strawberries. Ahri knows how to eat healthy at her apartment.

Ahri just stood next to the counter sipping on her hot drink through a mug Sori got her as a gift. She was already dressed in a black top and denim skinny jeans and her silver ballet flats. Luckily today she only has one young patient.Dr. Sheryl gave her the rest of the afternoon off.

"Er...yeah, I was out at the museum, and it took unexpectedly longer." A soft smile grazed her lips as Sori looked up at her and narrowed her light brown eyes at your not-so-hidden smirk.

"NOOO! Don't tell me you were with him, right?" Her eyes were wide.

Ahri grinned , still hiding a small smile, and placed her cup down as she took a place at the island. "Well, er, I did...run into Jhope at the museum."

"You what! ...so he did ask you to meet him there?..oh my word!" She almost drops her spoon.

Ahri inhaled but didn't meet her sister's calculated eyes. "Okay...he asked me to meet up so he can know more of Mona Lisa and my peculiar gift. So he was intrigued, and we talked... I can say we are somewhat...friends." She tugged a strand of her dark velvety hair behind her eyes; the sun was shining on the bling of her diamond bracelet.

Then Sori almost choked on her cereal as she spotted the exquisite piece of jewelry on her sister's thin wrist.

"Oh my goodness! Is that...what I think it is?! A signature brand bracelet!" In her excitement, she squeals so loud that her spoon clatters into her bowl. Milk was gushing out!

Ahri laughs breathlessly, Sori, please calm down! Gosh, it's just a gift. A friendship gift. So, forget it and keep your mouth shut!"

Sori snorted knowingly,"Please friends only...that gift screams "I want you...I need you" kind of gift. You totally mesmerized that idol. ARMY is going to hunt you down; be careful." She smirks.

Ahri just shrugged and gestured to Sori to finish up if she still wanted to hitch a ride with her.

"I'm coming with you today, but will you drop me off at the mall?" I'm meeting Nova and Piper. Just to hang out...you know."

Ahri gave her a deadpan look. "You've overdrawn my credit card with all those luxury purchases. You'll wait till month's end to get it back."

Sori pulled a face. "It was a bargain...and you love the the  YSL bag I got you, so don't complain. Now you are just salty because I got lots of designer bags.. Dad gave me cash for the month so,..." She jumped up and stuck out her tongue at her unnie.

Ahri just shook her head at her little sister. Sori is so spoilt by both her and her parents but she loves it.

🎨🎨🎨🎨

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Scene 14

Twitterazzi in action

Settings: Clinic

˖✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Sori grinned on their way to the clinic. "Why can't I go on social media today!" She whined.

Ahri looked at her sternly. "So that your mind is not bombarded with false rumors, those YouTube influencers love to react to false stories...especially the things they made up about me."

Sori sighed, "Okay, 'museum girl'...but most of it was true. You did  dine wit Mr Hip-thrusts K-pop idol...and you like him.she waggled her eyebrows."

Ahri shrugged, "Well, they don't know if it's true or if that it was indeed me. So keep a low profile...don't be a blabbermouth with Piper and Nove. Otherwise I wouldn't take you to the amusement park next week."  She waggled her finger at her sister's scrunched-up nose.

When they reached the upmarket wellness clinic, bickering and bantering, Ahri immediately heard squeals when they stepped into the reception.

Noami was first to rush over, squealing and almost tripping over her yellow sandals. She was excitedly waving the morning paper in front of them. Ahri and Sori looked with amused eyes at Noami, who was fanning herself with the paper.

Sori whispers softly, "What's wrong with her? Is she mental?"

"Girl, you di'dn't!" Her shriek could be heard loud and clear; she thrust the newspaper into Ahris's hands. On the cover of Hello! was a blurry picture of her walking out in the night cosily holding hands with the superstar. She was looking very cheerful in the picture. They made the front page of every tabloid newspaper.

Naomi laughed incredulously, "This morning I innocently went for my morning cappuccino at our favorite coffee shop at the subway, and there it was screaming at me...all the newsstands were filled with you on the front page."

Dr. Sheryl, their boss, looked over Ahri's shoulder, peeking at the front page. "Is that you? I mean, the photo looked kind of blurry, but that tote bag gave you away immediately.Wow!"

Theo gasped dramatically, "I knew it... I told you guys Ahri is an idol magnet! She's going to let the whole Bangtan get to Chicago. Are you guys a 'thing now?"

Ahri blushed beet red and threw the paper on the low coffee table, not eager to read all the gossip or rumors. "Girls, it's nothing like that...we're just friends. I've told Sori that too."

"Hmm, yeah, sure...then I'm secretly dating Jin." Naomi said with a wink.

Ahri laughs, "Well, I do have an extra ticket to tonight's final show at the Allstate Arena...VIP seats in the celebrity box, soundcheck, and backstage tour access. Only a few lucky fans who won the radio competition will get an impromptu meet-and-greet. Our ticket numbers won also, and you get a special merch package and a filled snack pack to munch on...so who wants it?"

After she said that, there were loud squeals as all her coworkers jumped around her, hugging her tightly and begging to give one of them the exclusive ticket.

Noami and Sheryl groan when they realize it was for the Chicago show.

Naomi, with deep disappointment, "You mean it's tonight? And my crush just asked me out on a long-anticipated date! Oh no!" She screams into her fist while Sori bursts out laughing. Her sister's colleagues are so extra, and now they are also mature BTS fans. Like, really!

Sori folded her arms." Why don't you cast lots?" It's just fair. The one who wins can decide who can go tonight and meet your 'friend.'"

Dr. Sheryl sighed deeply, "Jude and Chad are with me this weekend. My turn for the kids... I promise them a Disney marathon and their favorite burgers for takeout tonight, so I think just give it to Theodora."

Theo bounces up and down,"Oh yes! Count me in... I'll wear my Jungkook hoodie and bring my signature Army bomb with the Hobi cap, purple glitter eyeliner, and gosh, I'm so excited...breathing the same air as Hobi. The atmosphere will be electrifying!"

Sori clapped her hands because the red-haired Theo is so fun to be with. "We can put our glitter stickers on. I still have a lot from my exclusive package."

The morning was busy, as Noami had three patients, Sheryl had to go out to pick up her sons at the airport, and Ahri had one 10-year-old patient with excessive social anxiety. She wanted to hand over this patient to Naomi, a child psychologist, but the child's parent insisted on keeping her. So she worked the morning helping the child gently express her cropped-up emotions through finger art.

At lunch , she excused herself to go drop off Sori at the mall and just decided to get a coffee and meat sandwich on the way back to the clinic.

Sori smiled when she jumped out of the car,"Don't worry about me; I'll get a taxi back to the apartment. Do you need anything from the mall?"

Ahri nodded. "Get me my favorite purple Gummi Bears candy and some snacks for the weekend movie marathon."

"Oh yes...it's going to be wonderful!" She squeals as she waves and runs into the mall entrance, where her friends will be waiting at a nearby ice cream shop.

Ahri drove to a coffeehouse and opted for their drive-through. She quickly scrolled through her text messages, and there was a text from her 'boyfriend.' He was missing her and couldn't wait to see her backstage after the show. He sent her a million love emojis that show his affection for her. Ahri beamed as she took her cup and drove back to the clinic.

J-Hope sent her a clip of the new Mona Lisa song that he will perform tonight, just a small promotion for the upcoming MV release. Ahri was squealing as she heard his smooth vocals. Her boy was smoking hot. Then she blushed as she reminisced about the previous evening and how they kissed twice.

Her heart was overly giddy at just the thought that a guy loved her so much as to overlook even being intrigued by her weirdness. Jhope wants to stay, and she will let him, hoping that his agency will not interfere in their love path.

Then he told her something strange. Not to worry about the Twittermania at the moment. His agency is dealing with the matter. She just shrugged and thought it was about the new exposure from the previous night. Newspapers are making cashh J-Hope's antics.

She parked a few cars away as she stepped out, still dazed , reading and scrolling over her phone with a small smile, flirting with her boyfriend cutely.

She noticed the sudden attack too late.

The paparazzi found her.

Three paparazzi suddenly emerged from an SUV parked in front of the clinic; she didn't even notice them. She also recognizes a tabloid van parked not too far from the entrance. They love their live footage. A loud wave of voices hit her ears; they were shouting, cameras were clicking, and microphones were popped into her face. One raises a phone in her face, another a longline camera. They were too close; her face made the perfect close-up. Everything happened too fast.

What the hell!

Click...click!!!

Ahri froze, stunned like a statue. She faced a barrage of fast-paced questions. Her mind was in disarray. She was captured.

'Are you dating BTS's J-Hope?!"

'What's your name?"

Are you Asian?

Another question! How did you meet?

Are you guys official?

Another obnoxious photographer jumped in!

Is HYBE protecting you, or are they freezing you out?

They were just snapping pics from all angles. They want to make sure her face was visible. Her heart was thumping erratically as she stood with a stoic face.

Inside she told Just breathe...you're safe...they can't hurt you."

Then she narrowed her eyes sternly at one of the cameras that was rudely in her face.

"Then print this... I'm just trying to go to work! Let me be.

Suddenly the clinic security got a tip and saw the commotione, a few feet away from the glass entrances. Two security personnel quickly rushed to her aid, blocking the cameras and shielding her with their bodies while waving the photographers away.

Ahri felt her heart drop as she clutched her coffee tightly; her mind was frozen amid the excited yells and screams.

She suddenly felt painfully visible and exposed!

🎨🎨🎨🎨

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Scene 15

Caught in the spotlight

Settings: St Regis Presidential Suite

˖✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿✧˖

Hobi was just emerging from his presidential suite's shower when he saw a notification on his phone. The notification was from a Twitter/YouTube feed. He was busy rehearsing with some artists who would be sharing a stage with him.

He furrowed his brows as he tapped on it.

There was a video titled
'J-Hope's alleged girlfriend confronts paparazzi outside a Chicago clinic."

There his introverted girlfriend was. Still with her coat, black cap, and coffee in her hands, looking flustered for a moment. But then she stops, turns around, and, looking directly into a camera, delivers her calm punch line:

"Then print this... I'm just trying to go to work! Let me be."

The clip was then cut, and J-Hope sat his phone down and furrowed his brows. His jaw tightened as he struggled to understand Ahri's current state of mind. She shouldn't have to be brave like that.

He inhaled, frustrated, and then he texted their US PR liaison that worked with the press. He hopes she will not be afraid and refrain from coming to his final show. He needed her to be there.

Tomorrow he will fly charter to Mexico City.

His notification feeds were bombarding his Bangtan chat group. It seemed those at the Military based were on their phones. Even Yoongi was online. Jin-hyung who was so busy with his Netflix variety show promotions and an upcoming second solo album was also online.

It seemed Korea Dispatch had posted the so called dating scandal. His PR mangers were working overtime to cover up a so called scandal. He wasn't confirming or denying anything.

The Bangtan💜seven chatgroup was bombarded with notifications. Even X.

BTS ARMY MELTDOWN!

#JhopeDating #OurSunshine #MonaLisaBag

@HopieforHobi: If this is true. I'm crying and cheering simultaneously. Our Hobi deserves happiness. And this girl is seriously pretty. 😭😭😭

@BtsantiTrain: Oh, are you guys serious or delusional? Hybe used it for cloud after their best girl group left them in the dust. Oh, this girl is paid by Hybe to take attention from the case. Grow up, delusional ARMYs.

@BTS4ever: Ugh, shut up, @BtsantiTrain. Go touch some grass. Why are you guys so jealous? We all can see that Hobi is truly happy. Perhaps you could consider leaving this chat and supporting your fans' MVs instead.

@MonaLisaMuse: This girl is not even a K-pop idol, but she already got sold out selling power. I work at the Louvre here in Paris, and our shops are empty. All the Mona Lisa tote bags are out of stock, even at our distributors. She's a queen!

@Namjoonies: According to sources at our museum, she reportedly has a PhD in neuropsychology and an IQ of 155. Hobi has set a high standard. She possesses both beauty and a wealth of intelligence. ARMY you need to study if you want a bangtan.

@YoongiesGirl: Is it true she can literally talk to portraits? Wow, a real-life Hermione!

@Ot7Tannies: Imagine having the face, intelligence, and J-Hope. Life isn't fair, but I'm so happy for him.

@Army4bts: Do you guys think J-Hope is the first to start Chapter 3: Family and Kids?

@Jinlover: Oh, I had hoped we could witness our WWH walking down the aisle. I'm tired of seeing him as an MC. Maybe he will be MC at Hobi's wedding.

@JhopesHeart: She handled those annoying paps with the grace of a queen. Calm, classy, and 💯sassy. Queen energy. She took a page out of Yoongis book.

@ARmylovesBangtan: I'm so relived the Nayeon-ship has sailed. Because it never docked!

....

The BTS chat group was also engulfed in chaos. Hobi grinned when he sat on the sofa and read the chats. The other members can see him online, but they notice that he is not entering the chat. All the members in the military were online, regardless of their location.

Jimin and Jungkook were grinning because they sat together on Jimin's bed. Taehyung was relaxing in the chopper after a training session. The fellow soldiers gave him some space. Suga was on military leave, Jin was relaxing in the studio after a recording, and Namjoon was at the dining table.

Jin: So are all of us going to ignore the fact that Hobi just caused a dating scandal in the US?

Yoongi: Jin-hyung, we all know Hobi confided in you. Is she his girlfriend? It looks like he lost his mind.

Namjoon: The fact that she's a neuropsychologist with an IQ of 155, higher than mine, how the heck did Hobi practically bagged my dream girl.

Taehyung: Hobi, we know you online!

Hobi enters the chat.

Jimin: Okay, where did you really meet her? Jin said she talks to portraits. So she is from Hogwarts.

Jungkook: Hogwarts doesn't exist, Jimin.

Jimin: Well, she practically talks to ancient art. It's magical.

Yoongi: Or she's certified mental. But Hobi is also not normal.

Hobi: 🤣🤣 Can you guys chill? We are "friends; we are getting to know each other. So, relax.

Jin: Relax!!! You're crazy. You are dating openly but not confirming or denying it. Photos are posted online! You're making a statement.

Jimin: Is she sweet and sunny like you?

Hobi: We complement each other. She's a deep, sassy introvert like Yoongi; smart like Joonie; cute like Kookie; graceful like Jimin; very artistic like Taehyung; and she can cook like Jin. It's complicated. And we met at the Louvre unexpectedly. Guys...I like her...really, really like her.

Namjoon: Wow, is she the ONE? The future Ms. Jung and the mother of the future hobis.

Hobi: I think she is 'IT,' and I don't want to mess this up, and she is Asian. My family will approve.

Jungkook: As long as you are happy, Hyung! But what does the agency say?

Hobi: Shocked, because we got caught. But whatever they say, I'm not giving up on this. The bodyguards actually like her, especially Mr. Lee.

Jin: Wow! Did you join JinHit Entertainment? Rebel with a cause.

Yoongi: ARMY is in meltdown. When you have time, just go on Weverse and make things clear without revealing your girls' true identity.

Taehyung: Forget it! Her identity will be known by tonight. Dispatch is working tirelessly to find her information.

Hobi: Hybe got all her info, though. But the PR here in the US is working on it. And I'm not hiding her; she's part of my light.

Yoongi: Cringe. But I'm proud of you. You're definitely whipped like cream. Good luck, bro. With all the Hybe haters and obsessed saesangs, you'll need hair on your teeth.

Namjoon: So when will we meet our 8th member? I want to talk about art with her over dinner and wine.

Jimin: Joon, are you planning to steal Hobi's girl?

Jungkook: Stop it, Chimmy! Joon, just admire Hobi's taste. And he set the bar too high for us to follow.

Taehyung: Well, I didn't think Hobi would have such an exquisite taste. His girl is weirdly interesting. I can't wait to go with her to museums.

Hobi: I'm planning to invite her to Seoul, perhaps after the encore concert, we can have dinner at my house.

Jin: Add her to our chat group. I want to meet her sooner.

Jungkook: Yes, please, hyung.

Jimin: I want to have video calls with her. She needs to know we are her brothers-in-law.

Hobi: Let's wait until the craziness calms down a little. My girl is still figuring out how to keep herself breathing under the sudden spotlight.

Jin: Oh, 'my girl'... Gosh, you're so in love. I approve. But we are going to add her to the group, with or without your approval.

Yoongi: Hybe can employ her at our new agency clinic as our personal and official mental health advisor.

Namjoon: Okay, noted: I approve. She is bringing art and intellect, and she can calm paparazzi with her aura.

Jungkook: I'm going to make matching wallpapers with her. I hope it's okay.

Hobi: Guys , let me just talk it through with her, okay? Meeting Bangtan will freak her out.

Taehyung: Why? Jin said she was not an ARMY?

Hobi: She is now...her coworkers and her little sister are huge ARMYs.

Jimin: How old is her sister?

Hobi : She's the age that will land you in jail.

Jimin: Nevermind.

Hobi: She's a minor, 17 years old. Very cute but a loud ARMY. Prepare for utter drama!

Yoongi: So, does this girl have a name? I'm tired of calling her 'HER.'

Hobi: Kang Ahri.

Jin: I think the Nayeon shippers are combustion now.

Hobi: 😂 Nayeon is like a little sister. How delutional!

Yoongi: Let's not waste your time. Enjoy tonight's concert...

🎨🎨🎨🎨

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿

Scene:16

Only friends with J-hope!  Yeah right.

Settings: Allstate Arena

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿

If someone had told Ahri three weeks ago that she would be the luckiest non-ARMY girl attending a sold-out BTS concert with VIP access and a backstage pass, she would've laughed so hard that she'd end up in the emergency room. She doesn't even have a BTS playlist on her Spotify account like Sori, Naomi, and Theo.

But for a girl whose face got exposed, she was quite calm and composed, as if nothing moved her, although she tried to be brave and not show weakness. She was ready with a mustard-colored 'Hope on the Stage' merch t-shirt and light beige cargo pants. Her hair was straight over her shoulders.

Sori was so excited to attend the second day because they have a full backstage tour and get to see the artist lounge and take more photos with the artist. Sori was still dazed that they scored the best of the final night. They will be seated in a VIP private cubicle on top, where celebs usually sat, and they will be served snacks, etc. Theo also came earlier to her apartment so that they could ride together.

Thea's red hair was brushed out, her failing attempt to calm her girls. She spotted a Jungkook t-shirt, her 'Jimin fans' when she gets too hot, and her signature see-through bag, filled with a cellphone, water , snacks, a portable charger, tissues, lip gloss, and some limited photocards that she wants to exchange with fellow ARMYs and all that jazz.

Theo looked more hyped up than an ARMY disco ball. Sori has placed numerous stickers on her arms and cheeks. For a 28-year-old, Theo looked like a teen, in the same league as Sori.

On their way to the venue, with her small black Kia, Sori was bouncing up and down on the backseat...way too excited for Ahri's liking. Theo just chuckled, amused. She liked Ahris' little cheerful sister. A true ARMY.

Sori shrieked, 'I can't believe I'm breathing the same air as J-hooooope." Waving her ARMY bomb in the car as if she were a fairy godmother.

Ahri rolled her eyes,"Sori, can you please tone it down?" I don't want you to rupture a lung. Mom will kill me if anything happens to her baby!"

Theo just You guys are so lucky to be on the radar ofe J-Hope! You already met him. I think I'm going to be too speechless if I stand next to him."

Ahri grinned, "You should've seen Piper and Nova. One tripped, and a mochi fell on Hobi, and the other fainted. So much drama just for a superstar. Theo, please don't get starstruck and embarrass me. He is just a human being."

Sori snort,"Yeah right...coming from a non-BTS fan, getting all the attention real ARMY should be getting. You do know that being so friendly with THE JHOPE can get you killed."

Ahris eyes widen. "Are you serious?"

Theo smirked, "Only obsessed fans do that. You know, the one with parasocial behavior towards an idol or celebrity."

Sori laugh,"Don't worry...you are tight with Mr. Lee, so he might recognize you and maybe protect Jhope's new 'friend.'

Ahri only gave her a pointed look. "Very funny, Sori."

Theo inhaled deeply as they neared the venue. The queues were extra long, but Ahris lanyard was special, as they found out at the VIP-exclusive queue. Theo and Sori were flabbergasted to see some American YouTubers and influencers.

When the VIP staff saw Ahris' lanyard with the wording "All access-Jhope guest," She and Sori and Theo were immediately led up by a male staff member through a passage, where an elevator led up to the VIP suites of the Allstate Arena. The staff member informed them that they were part of the VIP winners to take pics with the artist and a full tour of the backstage area. Theo and Sori almost cried when they heard the pleasant news.

When they entered the double doors , the suite was covered with thick carpet, and then they saw the open glass enclosure that has a stunning view of the whole stadium. They were at the top. A few charcoal black leather chairs were lined up. A stunning view of the stadium. Inside the suite were a buffet table with assorted snacks, chafers with burgers, chips, and fried chicken, some healthy veggie snacks, and lots of drinks.

They could see the huge screens and how the fans streamed into the arena; the energy and excitement were tangible. Sori was leaning over the railing to check out the area in awe. She was eating a packet of cheesy fries. Theo was helping herself to burgers and coke.

"Wow, I feel like a celebrity...watching from the top of the suite." She exclaimed, her eyes beaming from elation.

The whole small suite was only for Ahri and her guests, which rendered Theo speechless. It was arranged by Jhope.

They could enjoy various snacks and food while enjoying the show. Ahri sat on the leather seat, enjoying the BTS songs playing on the huge screens. J-Hope's dance breaks were mesmerizing.

Sori grinned, sitting next to her. "J-Hope is not doing this for normal people. The entire suite box is reserved exclusively for us... Ahri, is there something you haven't shared with us?" She shoved her sister while munching on a crispy drumstick.

Ahri almost choked on her gummy bear candy. "Of course not! Since when was I normal? I'm part of the gifted community. Dah! And what are you talking about? Jhope and I are just friends. Can't an abnormal person be friends with a celebrity?

Theo and Sori simultaneously,"NO!!!"

Ahri just shook her head. "Then your life must be sorrowful...He is a very friendly guy. And I treat him normally, not like you, all wide-eyed, changing your voices to sound cute, or trying too hard to be noticed. Unlike me, I'm just me...boring Ahri, nothing exceptional about me, despite my high IQ and PhD degree."

Theo pressed her lips not to laugh at Soris's sourness. "So, he liked you because you're boring—a very strange way to flex the boring extraordinaire. You better let me wear your bracelet for tonight before a sneaky pap gets hold of it and the Army starts to analyze your jewelry. You know our fandom is very much like Dad. They know how to dig the most unlikely clues out. Even your boring Mona bag is sold out...and it's not even all that!!"

Ahri simply smiled and consented to allow Sori to keep her bracelet, recognizing its potential to create a stir. Jin was doing the same type of promotion for the bracelet for FRED.

🎨🎨🎨🎨

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿

Scene 17

Monas love rival

Setting: Arena and Backstage

✧✿✧˖°˖✧✿

All around, thousands of Bluetooth-induced Army Bombs glowed with a red hue, followed by a sea of purple. Ahri couldn't lie; the atmosphere was electric. The energy, the visuals, and the expensive merch the teens were wearing around them. The suite next to them was filled with other celebrities ord J-Hope guests. Only a few suite seatings were filled, as it was exclusive.

The stadium roareds J-Hope entered the stage. His presence filled the arena with awe. He was born to be a performer. ARMY bombs were waved, yells and shouts. They even sang the song lyrics word by word even if they don't even understand the language. It was wonderful.

Sori and Tneo were shouting, and Ahri just quickly placed some of her earplugs in. She'll be deaf before the end of the evening.

Halfway through the show...

"Chicago!! ARE YOU READY?!" J-Hope shouted from the stage, glowing in sweat and sparkles.

There were loud, ear-deafening screams. Ahri winced where she was seated with her ARMY bomb, but Theo and Sori were standing, waving, and taking videos of the show. Sometimes they pressed the cellphones in her hand to take over the capturing because she wasn't singing or dancing like them. She is so boring, according to Sori, who was screaming her lungs out.

'ARE YOU REALLY READY, CHICAGO ARMY!!!'

The scream tripled. Then something extraordinary happened! And then he looked up in their direction at the VIP-EXCLUSIVE pit.

And then the screen lit up as he winked as though he looked right at her, which he was.

Immediately the camera moved to their section, where Sori and Theo appeared on the screen. Luckily, she had glasses on, and she was seated with a cellphone in front of her, capturing the moment.

When the camera shifts to the screaming crowd and backo J-Hope's secret smirks. ARMY immediately knows that the mystery museum girl was in the audience, but they couldn't depict which suite she was at.

Sori looked down at her sister as she grabbed her arm with a strength she didn't know she possessed. "OH. MY. GOODNESS...he winked in our direction. Jhope winked at you...Ahri!"

Ahri blinked twice and lowered the camera. "Are you crazy...that was just sweat in his eyes!"

Theo's eyes were wide,"No way! That was a love wink. HE KNOWS YOU EXIST!"

Sori was jumping up and down next to her, screaming, " You're going to be so famous now, Ahri...you're going to be a fanfic!"

Ahri just pulled face." Guys, stop your nonsense and enjoy the show. I'm going to get myself some chicken. This overwhelming atmosphere makes me anxious!" She jumped up and went to the buffet then watching from inside as she sat peacefully at the table and enjoy her food. Theo and Sori were singing along and chanting like witches busy with spells.

J-Hope was performing his new songs, 'Sweet Dreams,' and to Ahri's surprise, he performed Mona Lisa.

He performed more energetic raising and dances. Ahri was amazed at his level of stage presence. Her boyfriend was commanding the stage, and where she stood in the doorway, her heart was pounding as she couldn't fathom that the superstar was hers and how many ARMYs' dreams were broken because of a non-fan who captured his heart all because of Mona Lisa.

After the exhilarating show, J-Hope went offstage, followed by his dancers. The arena was filled with money confetti, and ARMY were satisfied and content seeing their idol's life after the military. A staff member handed him a cold bottle of water and a white towel to refresh himself.

His management brought the radio winners of the show to meet and greet him. His staff congratulated him on a highly successful show while he remained clad in his red leather performance attire. The backstage artist lounge area was buzzing with excitement and energy. J-Hope's entourage was around him, taking off his red fur cover. The air was still full of stage sweat and cologne.

Everything halted for Jhope when he sensed the presence of Ahri and her group behind the other VIP winner ticket holders and radio show winners.

He smirked as he saw Ahri with a mustard tour merch t-shirt and cute cargo pants. Sori was dressed in a BTS beanie and a t-shirt in red and black with one of his performance photos. It was a very expensive t-shirt. He smirked at Theo's and Sorus' faces that were filled with glitter stickers. They held their hands and Army Bombs.

Theo was starstruck as she already fumbled with trembling hands to open her cellphone camera app to capture the atmosphere.

Ahri just rolled her eyes as she watched how the fans were gushing and crying around Jhope.

She looked at Sori, who was overly hyped up, "Please, nobody scream like those crazies. He is literally wearing lip balm and not a crown!"

Sori giggled, "Speak for yourself. He is an angel!" She couldn't wait to see Hobi again. Although she was too nervous to talk to him last time, today she has many questions for him. The fans were so excited talking to him. His bodyguards stood around him in case any fans attempted a "Jin grab and kiss" moment with Hobi, who would not be impressed.

His eyes suddenly beamed as he saw Ahri, her colleague, and Sori coming behind the other VIP ticket holders and winners who were chosen for the exclusive meet and greet. His eyes met Ahris's discreetly behind his dark space glasses. Ahri stood behind the group, smiling softly as Jhope and his staff led the group to take pictures.

Two Army fans had the same Mona Lisa bag, and Sori gave Ahri a knowing look.

Jhope just smirked as a few pics with the giddy fan group were taken. Ahri suggested taking a pic of Theo and Sori separately with the star. A staff member took a pic of Ahri and Jhope last. The other fans were already led out to tour the backstage area. Sori looked at Ahri, who just waved her off to go and enjoy the tour; she'll wait for them in the artist lounge.

When it was quiet, the bodyguards discreetly left the artist lounge and closed the door so that J-Hope could enjoy privacy with his 'lady.'

J-Hope whispered in Ahri's ear while embracing her tightly, saying, "I'm so glad you came. I missed you today." He pulled back and smiled down at her beaming eyes.

'Of course you did! I had a full access pass, and giving it up for annoying paparazzi would be utterly stupid." She teased softly

J-Hope grinned and cupped her face with affection. "Gosh ... I'm crazy about you. Can I just kiss you senseless right now?" He said against her lips.

Ahri snorts breathily, "You can, but remember I'm the designated driver for two Army fans... I need to have composure and a sound mind, but I'll grant you free access to my lips." She uttered dryly, but her eyes were glowing as Jhope embraced her, and his lips captured hers with yearning and passion.

After a few minutes of a heavy kissing match, they were both breathless. Jhope's eyes were filled with love and affection as he gazed into Ahri's shy ones. Gosh, he almost kissed her so that she became mindless. Her cheeks were flushed. J-Hope took her hand and led her to a sofa. "So my pretty girl survived the screaming?"He teased as he took a water bottle from a table next to him and handed it to her. She thanked him and nodded.

"Yeah, though my left ear is slightly deaf from the ARMY chants and screams as well as Theo threatening to marry you." She said, sipping on her water.

Jhope chuckled, pulling her into his side, caressing her arm," "So is my girl a fan now? Did the second show convince you and win you over?"

Ahri looked up at him, smiling as she tenderly caressed his cheek. "I mean...your dancing is decent, especially for a cool guy singing about a 500-year-old Renaissance woman," she smirked.

Jhope threw his head backwards and laughed loudly, so real and free; his eyes sparkled when he looked at her grinning face. He suddenly planted another kiss on her inviting lips.

"You're so beautiful, baby! ...but you're impossible, but I love it!" He chuckled.

Ahri raises her eyes and mutters airily, "I get that a lot."

Jhope slowly stood up, and at another table he took his small LV bag and handed her a little box.

She furrowed her brows. "What now? Please, sweetie...not another stack of tickets. I believe I have reached my limit for social interactions, and it is stressful to babysit Sori during a concert. I'll be the one needing psychiatric treatment..." She pouted.

Jhope just smirked and stole a quick kiss. "Don't worry...you already have an all-access lanyard to all my concerts of your choice. Free of charge...VIP seating...you can even take your parents with you..."

"Okay, fair enough! Because American paparazzi became instant millionaires with you here...they will soon find out my real identity?" She shudders at the thought.

Jhope looked solemn. "Don't fear, darling. I'm not denying or confirming any rumors. Just trust me. But in that box is something more interesting.".

Ahri lifts her brows. "Please, no more expensive jewelry. Sori almost got an aneurysm this morning. So I let her borrow it for a while so that eagle-eyed ARMY wouldn't analyze stuff..." Ahri was astounded when she opened the adorable box.

"Keys?" She looked flabbergasted at it.

J-Hope grins, "Yes, one is the key to my LA penthouse and the other to my Seoul house. I want you to come to my final show in LA. Spend time with me before I return back home to start the Asian tour...and I would love you to meet me in Seoul after the tour." He looked at her awed face with hope.

"You're serious?" She gasped.

Jhope nodded with a serious expression. "Ahri I've told you. I'm here to stay, and I want you to stay part of my journey. Ahri, I'm serious about you. Will you let me stay?" He took her soft hands in his.

Ahri looked at the sincerity. "Yes...I want you to stay forever." She bit her lip nervously.

Jhope smiled tenderly, "Then I will...you will be the only woman in my heart. Not even Mona can take your place. So will you come to LA and Seoul?"

Ahri grinned, "Yes, I'll be there."

Jhope nodded, "Be advised... I'm not going to hide you. My agency can take any actions they choose, and while the K-pop community and antis may react negatively, I will continue to live my life by my own rules. I don't care if they agree or not. You are my 3rd chapter."

Ahri smiled tearily, "You're so romantic, Hoseok. I'm just as crazy about you. And Mona Lisa is not impressed, believe me. She's so salty. I heard her say...your pants were too tight, and your hips did something religiously illegal. Whatever that means...see, she is vindictive."

Jhope burst out laughing, "Gosh, I knew that old lady was watching. My life with you will be such an adventure. You truly brought light to my life, Ahri...and I'm falling deeply in love with you every moment." He suddenly says with a serious tone.

Ahri smiles shyly and whispers, "I'm already falling hard, Hobi...just be ready to catch me."

And then they leaned in and embraced each other with a soft, lingering kiss that held so much promise.

J-Hope smirked as they smiled tenderly in each other's eyes. I meant what I said. I will not allow destiny to pass me by.

A soft knock sounded at the door. Mr. Lee cautiously peeked in. Luckily, Ahri and Jhope looked decent; only the slightly swollen lips portrayed what they were up to.

Mr. Lee grinned when he noticed that Ahri and Jhope had guilty expressions. He cleared his throat. "Just to let you know, sir , the tour group is coming back up. Would you like Hobeom or Jiwon-unnie to accompany our miss to the group?"

His eyes darted to Ahri next to Jhope, and he smirked at her, who stood there with pursed lips, her cheeks flushed. "Good to see you, Miss." Ahri finger-waved, and she gave a little bow to Mr. Lee. She could feel the heat of J-Hope's hand on her waist.

Jhope nodded and gave a little bow. "Yes, please, and then we can also take our leave. I need a refreshing shower and a bowl of tteobokki," he grinned as he looked at his smiling girlfriend."Keep your phone open. I'll be meeting you tomorrow early for a 'goodbye' breakfast. Take care and drive safely until tomorrow."

He gave her a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek.

Ahri smirked as she waved him goodbye as she slipped out of the private artist lounge and followed two staff members in the direction the tour guides were with the happy and giddy armies. Theo and Sori looked super hyped up. They got packages with little gifts inside. The Army group were so excited, the fact that they took
numerous pics with their beloved idol.

Ahri smiles when they spot her, next to a quiet staff member. "Ready?"

They nodded as they all left the arena, satisfied and happy. Ahrus's heart was filled with contentment. She has met the man whom she wanted to spend her life with.

Famous or not...he is hers for keeps.

🎨🎨🎨🎨

A/n: Ahri and Hobi gave destiny a chance.

Thank you for all the reads and votes. Kindly comment your thoughts. So that I can acknowledge your loyalty.

1. Which scene were your favourite scene and why?