4

SOMETHING PINK COMES THIS WAY

This was how fans had begun to describe the girl's wildfire-like rave that was sweeping across the land. The world tour was a testament to their meteoric rise. No one more than the girls had to deal with this newfound fame. Pink Generation had toured beyond themselves. They alone could tell. The fans could not. They could care less as the constant dopamine the band offered was all they craved. Three years had passed since the birth of Pink Generation. Countless hours of practicing spent on honing their skills had materialized into the phenomenon that the group had now become. From often pushing itself to the point of exhaustion to achieving success at uncommon speed, everything had happened in a manner defying logic. The atmosphere at Blue Sky Entertainment was tense. Pink Generation had been rehearsing for their upcoming album, ‘Rise Above,’ but the recent turn of events had put a damper on their spirits. Julie had been receiving hate emails from some of their fans. The messages were cruel and harsh, filled with insults and derogatory comments about Julie’s appearance and talent. It had started after Julie met Tony Lee.

Tony had been touring too. An established household name, his movie persona had a cult following among teen girls, his movie character usually bordered on being melancholic and nostalgic and being a lone wolf.

Having starred in several successful dramas and films, he was effortlessly charming and confident. It was said that his dashing looks were almost surreal. His smile, almost invisible in his movies had a certain sharpness to it. His heavily adorned head of lustrous hair was like a thing of myth. The deep-set eyes were what drove ladies bad. He was the oriental Greek god to them.

It was during one of Pink Generation's promotions that Julie first met Tony. His latest film ‘Phantom X’ was set to premiere in Singapore and he was thrilled to be a part of it. Tony had heard a lot about the beauty and charm of Singapore, and he was looking forward to experiencing it for himself.

The day of the premiere finally arrived, and Tony arrived at the theater in a smart black suit and red tie. As he stepped out of the car, he was greeted by a large crowd of fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of their favorite star. They shouted his name, held up posters of him and his movies, and even sang songs from his previous movies. Tony was thrilled to see so much love and admiration from his fans. The Theater was packed with cinephiles, celebrities, and fans eager to see the long-awaited film. Tony walked the red carpet, took pictures, and gave interviews to the press. He had a smile on his face and his eyes lit up with excitement as he interacted with fans and signed autographs.

The atmosphere in the theater was electric and everyone could feel the anticipation building. The lights dimmed and the movie started. Everyone was captivated from scene one. The suspense and drama kept them engaged as the story unfolded. Tony's performance in the film was outstanding, and the audience applauded as the credits rolled. After the film, there was a question-and-answer session with Tony, in which he answered questions from the audience. They asked him about his experiences on set, his thoughts on the plot, and his future projects. Tony answered all questions with grace and humor, which made the audience love him even more. The night capped off with a lavish afterparty where Tony interacted with his co-stars, directors, and other celebrities. He was surrounded by a crowd of adoring fans who posed for pictures with him and asked for his autograph. He was truly immersed in an engagement that was rare for his person. The love and support he received from the people of Singapore was an attestation of his well-received image.

The next day Tony explored the city as he decided to see its beauty firsthand. He first headed to Marina Bay Sands and enjoyed a great view of the city from the rooftop pool. He also visited Gardens by the Bay, a stunning botanical garden, walked the streets, sampled local food, and interacted with friendly locals. Tony's experience in Singapore was unforgettable and he knew he would always cherish his memories there.

Pink Generation had come to Singapore too. Pink Generation was warmly welcomed in Singapore. The city was filled with excitement and anticipation for their arrival. As the plane landed at Changi Airport, the girls peered out the windows and marveled at the breathtaking view of the city. The airport was packed with people, and the girls were greeted by a sea of enthusiastic fans, who held up signs and banners welcoming them to Singapore.

When the girls stepped off the plane, they were immediately struck by the warmth and humidity of the tropical city. The scent of spices and flowers floated in the air, and the girls are captivated by the beauty of their surroundings. The city skyline is dominated by towering skyscrapers, a true marvel, an Asian heritage. This and more had the girls very excited and they couldn’t wait to explore the city.

The girls were escorted to a hotel in a convoy, the streets lined with fans eager to catch a glimpse of their idols. Driving around the city, they were blown away by the cleanliness and efficiency of Singapore. The streets were wide and well-maintained, and the buildings were modern and impressive. The hotel where Pink Generation stayed was in the heart of the city and the team of hotel staff welcomed us with open arms. The hotel was gorgeous, had a breathtaking view of the city, and the girls were amazed at the hospitality they received.

Once the girls settled into the hotel, it was hard not to notice how creative some fans were in welcoming them to Singapore. Some fans made hand-made signs and banners, while others wore traditional Singaporean costumes to welcome them. The girls were touched by the fans’ efforts to make them feel welcome. Over the next few days, the girls had the chance to explore the city and bask in its many sights and sounds. They sampled some local delicacies.

The city buzzed as Pink Generation prepared for their concert. Fans from all over Singapore and surrounding areas flocked to the stadium to catch a glimpse of the girls, making the concert a huge success. The girls performed their hits to a sold-out crowd, and the energy in the stadium was electrifying.

The ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’ as the Singaporeans are known thanks to the same title of a successful movie, gave the much-needed sparkle benefiting the girls. Gifts of various sorts, expensive most of them, poured in like rain. Never had the girls been showered with so much adoration before. The first stop was scheduled for The Star Performing Arts Centre. A marvel of engineering and architecture, the theatre is at once intimate and epic, with every element thoughtfully designed to enhance everything at once. It bespoke the fine taste of the region. Pink Generation had little to do than just sing and dance.

One of Singapore’s largest outdoor event venues is The Meadow, which is situated at Gardens by the Bay and has a standing capacity of up to 30,000 people. It was a great location for all kinds of concerts, with a panoramic view of the Garden’s recognizable conservatory domes and super-trees and the city’s downtown skyline. Here was the final stop for Pink Generation.

“The air is different here,” Sue remarked. It truly was.

Julie had been waiting backstage after a performance, still hyped up from the adrenaline of being on stage. She was chatting with some of the staff when she heard someone call out Tony’s name. She turned to see him walking towards her, his eyes fixed on her. Julie stood transfixed. Her stomach turned within her.

“Tony Lee!” one of the staff members exclaimed.

“I wanted to congratulate the girls on their performance,” Tony said calmly, shaking the stunned staff. He was used to people swooning over him. His eyes were still on Julie’.

Julie's heart was racing as she struggled to maintain eye contact with him. She couldn't believe that Tony Lee was talking to her.

“I’m Julie,” she managed to say, holding out her hand.

“Tony,” he replied, as if they both needed introduction and names. He took her hand in his, softly. His touch sent shivers down her spine.

They chatted for a few more minutes, with Tony complimenting Julie on her performance. She couldn't help but blush at his words. The girls had begun to approach them when Tony suddenly had to go. He handed her a slip of paper. She took it from him absentmindedly, focusing on him. He came for her only, was what dawned on her.

“Was that Tony Lee!?” Sue asked excitedly, almost tripping over her.

“Of course, it was. Who else has such glorious hair?” Sunny mused.

Julie felt a sharp chill sensation that in turn warmed up in her as she watched Tony walk away. She was brought back to herself by the myriad of questions thrown at her.

“What did he say? How did he come here by himself? Did she touch him?”

“How cool did he sound? Like the movies?”

It was hard to tell who was asking what and what answer to provide.

“He was sweet,” Julie cut in finally. “He gave me this.”

Sue quickly collected the paper, giggling as she opened it. It was his number. They were ecstatic.

Wide-eyed, the girls gushed over how “a lucky devil,” in Jennie's words, Julie was.

Julie did her best to stay composed. She was a star after all. She knew that it was just a small interaction, but it had left a deep impression on her.

Over the next few days, Singapore offered them a Dreams Come True. The girls, entertainers themselves, could truly admit that it was the city itself that entertained them.

This was their last stop before going back home. All would agree that this was their best touring experience.

***

Back in Seoul, it was back to business as usual. The making of their fourth album was a top priority.

For the first few days, Julie was oblivious to the new development of the hate mail. Such was their busy schedule regarding their album in making. The girls had been fully immersed in the whole process. Rehearsals turned into recording, recording into re-recording, and recording into mastering. It was a demanding period, by any standard. But the girl's group knew what was at stake. Superstardom was both a blessing and a curse. The standard used to judge such a level was almost divine. Pink Generation had to be almost divine. Being branded a one-time wonder was a fear for any music band.

Ye Ji, the group’s manager, had first noticed the emails in the early morning when she was checking the band's official email account. At first, she thought it was just a random spam message, but upon closer inspection, she realized that it was a hate mail targeted towards Julie. She immediately brought the matter to Ki-Taek, the CEO of Blue Sky Entertainment.

Ki-Taek’s face contorted in anger as he read the email. “This is unacceptable. We can’t let our artists be subjected to such treatment,” he said, slamming his fist on the table.

Ye Ji nodded in agreement. “I’ve already forwarded the email to our legal team, and they’re tracing the IP address to find the sender. But we also need to address this with Julie and make sure she’s okay.”

Ki-Taek nodded. “We’ll have to be careful with how we handle this. We don’t want to create a panic or give the haters more ammunition.”

Ye Ji agreed. “I’ll speak to Julie and see how she's coping. Maybe we can also hire some security to keep her safe.”

Ki-Taek gave a curt nod and called for a meeting with the rest of the production team, including Hyun Ji, Chang-Min, and Seong. They all gathered in Ki-Taek’s office to discuss the matter at hand.

“This is a serious issue,” Ki-Taek said, looking at everyone in the room. “We need to come up with a plan to handle it.”

Chang-Min, the dance tutor, spoke up. “We should focus on ensuring her safety and mental well-being.”

Seong, the vocal class teacher, added, “We could also address this publicly, issue a statement from the band condemning hate speech and cyberbullying.”

Ki-Taek nodded thoughtfully. “That’s a good idea. We can also use this opportunity to raise awareness about the issue of cyberbullying and how it affects not just celebrities but everyone.”

Ye Ji agreed. “I’ll draft the statement and get Julie's approval before we release it. We'll also have to inform the rest of the girls so that they're aware of the situation and can support Julie.”

Ki-Taek stood up. “Okay, let’s all work together and ensure that we handle this situation with professionalism and sensitivity. We won’t let our artists be subjected to hate and negativity.”

***

Julie was no stranger to criticism on social media, but the hate emails from fans hit her hard. The emails were filled with hurtful words and insults. It was said that she wasn’t gifted in any way. She was nothing beyond her good looks. This devastated her; she couldn't understand why people were turning against her. It hurt her deeply.

This was hard to understand. It is said that pretty people are usually loved unconditionally. She wasn't lacking in this regard, the facial department. Why then would these people have against her? She felt hurt, and alone. Moreover, she was the only one targeted in the group.

Was it her relationship with fans? She wondered. It's always been rock solid. Julie more than anyone would always spare time for a quick photo and autograph with fans, especially younger female ones. Naturally, this would make her look good in the public eye.

She decided to deal with the barrage of hateful messages by trying to develop a tough skin for this new reality. Maybe, she thought, if she toughened up herself, this won't really get to her then. This was as she knew it was going to turn out to be useless as she was a very sensitive girl. She wore her heart on her sleeves, her emotions laid bare for all to see.

The girls were fearful as to how this could turn out to affect her. It wasn't just the professional or business side they were concerned about. She was a sister. No one more than Sunny felt her present pain. Jennie had always been protective of the group in her way. She was the no-nonsense person among the four of them. When she heard about the hate mail that Julie was receiving, she was devastated.

The girls had just finished their dance practice and were walking back to the dressing room when Jennie overheard a conversation between two staff members. They were discussing the hate mail that Julie was receiving, and how Ki-Taek and Ye Ji were trying to manage the situation. She felt her heart drop to her stomach. She quickly walked to Ye Ji's office to confirm what she had overheard.

Ye Ji was in her office with Ki-Taek, and they were both discussing the situation. They had received a lot of emails from fans who were unhappy with Julie's performance at the last concert. They were accusing her of not putting in enough effort, of not being committed to the group, and even of being lazy, relying on only looks to boost her image in the group.

Jennie stormed into the office, and without waiting to be invited, she began to speak.

“What the hell is going on? Why are you guys not doing anything to stop those fans from attacking Julie? Do you want her to break down or something? She's just a human being, for God's sake!”

Ye Ji and Ki-Taek were both taken aback by Jennie’s outburst. They had never seen her this angry before. “Jennie, calm down,” Ye Ji said. “We’re doing everything we can to manage the situation.”

“I don't think you are,” Jennie retorted. “Julie is my friend, and I'm not going to sit here and watch her get attacked by those idiots. I'm going to take matters into my own hands.”

“Remember who it is you are talking to,” Ki-Taek started. “I am in charge here.”

Jennie stormed out of the office before he could say anything else, leaving Ki-Taek shocked at her outburst. She went straight to her dressing room and picked up her phone. She knew that attacking the fans that had sent the hate mail was not the right thing to do, but she couldn't help herself. She was angry, and she wanted to defend Julie.

Jennie began to send text messages to some of the fans who had sent hate mail to Julie. She insulted them and called them names. Her messages only made things worse.

When Julie found out what Jennie had done, she knew the situation was about to take a worse turn. She knew that Jennie had only done it to defend her, but she also knew that it was not the right thing to do. She called Jennie and tried to talk to her about it, but Jennie was still angry.

“I don’t care what anyone thinks,” Jennie said. “I'm not going to let those fans attack you like that. You're my friend, and I'm going to defend you, no matter what.”

Julie was touched by Jennie’s loyalty, but she also knew that they had to find a better way to handle the situation. She decided to talk to Ki-Taek and Ye Ji and see if they could come up with a plan to manage the crisis.

***

Ki-Taek and Ye Ji were happy to hear that Julie wanted to work with them to solve the problem. They had been worried about her ever since they found out about the hate mail. They knew that she was a sensitive person, and they didn't want her to break down.

Together, they came up with a plan to address the situation. They decided to release a statement to the fans, explaining that Julie was working hard and that the group was doing everything they could to improve their performances. They also asked the fans to be patient and support the group through this difficult time.

Over the next few days, Ye Ji worked closely with Julie to monitor her social media accounts and email, filtering out any hate messages and ensuring that Julie felt supported and protected.

The statement was eventually released, condemning hate speech and cyberbullying, and urging fans to spread love and positivity instead. The response was overwhelming, with many fans showing their support for Julie and the rest of the band.

Jennie suggested that Julie take a break from social media and focus on her personal life for the time being. She also recommended that Julie seek help from a professional counselor to help her process her emotions and find ways to deal with the negativity.

Together, Jennie and Julie took a step back from the public eye and focused on their well-being. They went out for coffee, watched movies, and took walks in the park. They talked about everything but the hate emails, and for a while, Julie forgot about her troubles.

As they worked through the situation, Julie realized that she was lucky to have a friend like Jennie. Jennie's unwavering support and practical advice were exactly what Julie needed to get through this tough period. Jennie had always been there for Julie, and she knew that she could always count on her.

With Jennie’s help, Julie was able to find the strength to move past the hate emails. She learned to focus on the positive messages from her fans and ignore the negativity. She also learned that it was important to take care of herself and seek help when needed.

Julie found herself thinking about Tony. She was too nervous to call him, but she would often find herself staring at the slip of paper he had given her. Finally, she decided to take the plunge and send him a text.

“Hey, it's Julie.”

Tony responded almost immediately, and the two began texting back and forth. It was nearly organic. He charmed her almost immediately, and the little texts turned into more.

***

Jung was watching a classic on his old TV when his brother, Tony, walked in.

“The Pink streak continues!” he squealed.

“Huh?” Tony asked absentmindedly.

“The Pink...never mind. You are your own star. How do you manage with this old TV of yours?”

“HD is too real,” Tony said with a piercing smile. He was weird that way.

“I'm off tonight, Jung,” Tony started, sliding off his couch. “I've got a date. The rain would hold, I hope.”

“A date?”

“Yes. With Julie.”

“Something pink has come my way,” Tony said, leaving Jung astonished as to how he had pulled that off.

Julie couldn't contain her excitement. She did well to hide it behind her perfect makeup. Not that she needed any. The rest of the squad had tried to get information as to how this date was set up.

She politely postponed. She didn't want to “jinx it,” she said.

The city's air agreed with the mood. Rain clouds had gathered, but that didn't stop the nightlife of the city. People had grown accustomed to this trick. They knew it wouldn't rain. The colorful lights of buildings spun its rainbow, washing the streets with life. It was like the young folk of Seoul would say, “The lights would find you.”

Tony had come in through the back of the restaurant. He was a star. Julie had come in through the back too. She was led in by Tony's close associate. She had always wanted to eat from this place for a while. The food served here was a thing of legend. The world tour had taken a lot from her.

“You’re lovelier in person,” he said, stealing from behind her. He had watched her come in.

“She smells like heaven,” he said to himself.

Julie stayed composed, she feigned it though. Here she was with Tony in the flesh, many a maiden's dream. She struggled to relax.

The food didn't disappoint. It was the right way to start a date.

He made her comfortable. She found herself telling him everything about herself. He was charming that way.

He held her hands at some point and she loved it. His strong yet gentle hands wrapped nicely around her soft small hands as she spoke of seeing her again.

“I'd love more of this,” he said.

“As would I,” she remarked.

It was a splendid, beautiful night. They both agreed. She couldn't wait to get home to tell her squad. They would require double the story, though. She still owed them how the date was arranged in the first place. She would hold her peace for now.

***

It had been two days, and Sunny had still not heard from Julie. She had called multiple times, but Julie always seemed busy.

Julie's text came in the morning. “Where are you, girl?” Julie texted. “Home, yourself? I've been trying to reach you forever. You owe me lots of talks.”

After their massive success as Pink Generation, the girls moved out of the dorm. They were currently in a new phase of independence and success.

“Come over to my place.”

Julie knew what that meant. Their usual snacking ritual at Sunny's place. They would munch on pastries, even the forbidden ones. The group had always maintained a strict diet for optimum performance. But for a while now, Sunny had gone against the grain, secretly though. Julie had caught her in the act a few months ago on one of their tours in Paris. French croissants and crème brûlée were favorites of Sunny's. Julie had come into her hotel room and saw the package well-wrapped and hidden beneath her makeup stand.

“You sly one!” was all Julie exclaimed excitedly, creasing a devilish smile. The rest was history ever since. They became partners in snacking and forbidden meals.

Julie arrived at Sunny's, wearing her favorite biker jacket. Her heavy dark sunglasses nearly covered her entire face. This could disguise anyone perfectly. At Sunny's Julie felt relaxed and excited at the same time. As usual, she was greeted with a warm hug and the enticing aroma of freshly baked pastries, which she couldn't control her urge to get after the discussion was over.

They settled into the living room, surrounded by plush cushions and decorative pillows. Julie couldn't help but admire the elegant decor and stunning city views from the large windows.

“Then spill the tea,” Sunny said, breaking the silence. “What happened with Tony Lee?”

Julie grinned and felt her stomach thump. “Wow, Sunny. Already?”

“Yes, already,” Sunny chimed in.

“We went out to dinner last night and had such a great time. He's such a charming guy, and we talked about everything... Well, I talked about everything. I can't believe how open I was with him. He also listens to our music!”

Sunny's eyes widened in surprise. “Really? He is? Who is his favorite?”

“Myself, of course,” Julie answered.

Sunny's smile spread. “Hmmm...Neat!”

They chatted for a while, reminiscing about the old days and discussing upcoming tours. Julie couldn't help but notice how much Sunny had changed since her last tour in Paris. Her hair was styled in long, loose waves that lost a little weight, giving it a more streamlined and elegant look.

“Sunny, you look wonderful,” said Julie with unbridled admiration. “What is your secret?”

Sunny chuckled and looked a little embarrassed. “I go to the gym and eat better. I know we're on a strict diet, but I couldn't resist the occasional pastry.”

Julie laughed and felt a kinship. “I know, right? We have to live a little. Otherwise, you will go insane. Speaking of which, do you have that croissant yet?”

Sunny grinned and stood up. “Of course!”

“Don't forget the crème brûlée,” Julie continued.

As Sunny headed out to get the snacks, Julie thought about Tony. Julie was surprised by how easy it was to talk to him. She had always been shy around guys, but Tony had a way of making her feel comfortable. She knew she could get used to this feeling.

***

As Pink Generation continued to gain more fame, they also became more visible to the public eye. Their fanbase grew, and with that came a new set of challenges for each member.

Meanwhile, Sunny had her own set of problems. She felt a presence, someone following her around. She had assumed it was harmless. But as time went on, she began to feel uneasy.

This person never approached her or said anything, but would always be there, lurking in the background. She tried to ignore it, but she couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched.

Sunny was always focused on her music and never really thought much about dating. However, after meeting Robb Kim, the college professor who taught a class on entertainment business, she found herself drawn to him in a way she had never experienced before.

Sunny had always been focused on her career as a K-pop trainee, but meeting Robb made her realize that there was more to life than just work. Robb was a breath of fresh air in Sunny's life, and she found herself looking forward to their conversations and discussions about music and the entertainment industry.

Their relationship started as a friendship, with Robb offering to mentor Sunny and guide her through the intricacies of the business world. Sunny was grateful for his support, and she soon found herself opening up to him about her hopes and dreams for the future.

As they spent more time together, Sunny realized that she was developing feelings for Robb. She was hesitant to act on her feelings, worried about the age gap and the challenges of their different professions. But Robb seemed to understand her concerns, and he never pushed her to make any decisions she wasn't comfortable with.

One day, Robb asked Sunny out on a date. They agreed to meet at a cozy café in the heart of Seoul, and Sunny felt her heart flutter with anticipation as she got ready for the evening. She wore a simple but elegant blue dress that complemented her radiant smile, and she couldn't help but feel nervous as she stepped out of her apartment.

When she arrived at the café, she saw Robb waiting for her with a bouquet of sunflowers in his hand. Sunny couldn't help but smile at the sight of him, and she felt her nervousness fade away as they greeted each other warmly.

Over dinner, they talked about their shared love for music and their visions for the future. Robb was impressed by Sunny's dedication and talent, and he offered to introduce her to some of his contacts in the industry.

It all started on a bright summer day when Sunny was walking through the campus of Seoul National University, where Robb was a professor. She had gone to visit a cousin. She was humming a tune from the new Pink Generation album, and Robb overheard her singing.

“Hey, that's a great song!” he said, smiling.

Sunny was surprised that a professor would even know about K-pop, let alone like it. But she was also flattered, and the two of them struck up a conversation about music. At the time, he didn't know who she was.

As they talked, Sunny found herself becoming more and more interested in Robb. He was tall, with sandy blond hair and a charming smile. He was also incredibly intelligent and passionate about his work.

They exchanged numbers and started texting each other, discussing music and their favorite K-pop groups. One day, Robb texted Sunny and asked her out on a date.

Sunny was thrilled but also nervous. She had never been on a real date before, and she wanted everything to go perfectly. She spent hours picking out the perfect outfit and doing her hair and makeup.

When Robb arrived to pick her up, Sunny's heart was racing. He looked handsome in a blue shirt and jeans, and she could smell his cologne.

They went to a trendy Korean fusion restaurant in the heart of Seoul, where they shared kimchi pancakes and bibimbap. As they ate, they talked about everything from music to politics to their dreams for the future.

After dinner, Robb suggested they take a walk through the city. They strolled through the streets of Gangnam, holding hands and admiring the neon lights.

As they walked, they stumbled upon a street performer who was playing a guitar and singing a ballad. Sunny was mesmerized by the performer's voice and started swaying to the music.

Robb noticed her swaying and said, “You know, you're a great dancer. Do you want to dance with me?”

Sunny was surprised but also excited. She had never danced in public before, but something about Robb made her feel fearless.

They started dancing, and soon a crowd gathered around them. They were spinning and twirling to the music, and Sunny felt like she was in a dream.

After the song ended, Robb took Sunny by the hand and led her to a park nearby. They sat on a bench under a cherry blossom tree, looking out at the city skyline.

“Thank you for a wonderful evening,” Robb said, looking into Sunny's eyes. “I hope we can do it again soon.”

Sunny felt a rush of happiness and excitement. She knew that she had found someone special in Robb, and she couldn't wait to see where their relationship would go.

***

The recording session went smoothly the next day, and the girls felt confident about their upcoming album. As they were leaving the studio, Jennie and Sue noticed Sunny grinning from ear to ear.

“What's got you so happy, Sunny?” Jennie asked, curiosity getting the better of her.

“I have a date tonight,” Sunny replied, her cheeks turning pink.

“Ooh ooh,” Sue teased, nudging Sunny playfully. “You're such a deceiver, girl!”

They gleefully pounced on her. “He's cool,” Sunny said. “He's a college professor.”

“Oh,” Jennie started. “He's old then?”

Sunny laughed hard. “It is what it is.”

They all chuckled as they piled into their car and headed back to their dorm. It was nice to see Sunny so happy.

“Julie, you still owe us your story, you know?” Sue called out. “Don't think we forgot.”

***

That evening, Sunny met Robb at Han River Park. He had set up a romantic picnic for them, complete with candles and a blanket.

“This is so sweet, Robb,” Sunny gushed, feeling like she was truly connecting.

They spent the evening talking and laughing, enjoying each other's company. Robb laughed uncontrollably when Sunny told him the girls thought him old. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't shake that feeling. Every time she turned her head, she felt as if someone was following her. In the meantime, Pink Generation was getting ready for the release of their fourth album.

They had been working hard on the new songs, and the excitement was palpable among the group members. But even as they prepared to share their music with the world, they faced a new challenge. Sunny had noticed that she was being followed by a man who seemed to be watching her every move. At first, she thought she was being paranoid, but as the days went by, she became increasingly certain that someone was following her.

Ye Ji sat at her desk, staring at the computer screen with a worried look on her face. It had been a few weeks since Pink Generation's return from Singapore, and the stalking of Sunny was still ongoing. Ye Ji had tried everything in her power to figure out who was behind it but to no avail. The police were not an option, as Ye Ji feared it would cause a public scandal and damage the group's reputation. So, she resorted to hiring a private investigator. Ye Ji leaned back in her chair and let out a deep sigh. She had just received an email from the private investigator, but it didn't contain any new information. Ye Ji was beginning to lose hope. She knew that the stalker was getting more and more aggressive by the day, and she feared for Sunny's safety.

Just then, there was a knock on Ye Ji’s door. She quickly composed herself and called out for the person to come in. It was the private investigator, a middle-aged man named Jin. Ye Ji stood up and greeted him.

“Any luck?” she asked him, trying to mask her anxiety. Jin shook his head.

“I'm sorry, Ye Ji. I've been following all the leads you gave me, but so far, I haven't found anything concrete. The stalker seems to be very careful and smart.”

Ye Ji slumped back into her chair. “What am I going to do? I can't let this go on any longer. Sunny is getting more and more anxious by the day, and I can't blame her.”

Jin leaned forward. “There might be one more thing we could try. It's a little risky, but it might be our only option at this point.”

Ye Ji looked at him with renewed hope. “What is it?”

Jin took a deep breath. “We could try to set a trap for the stalker. We could use Sunny as bait.”

Ye Ji’s eyes widened. “Are you serious? That's dangerous!”

“I know, but hear me out,” Jin said. “We'll have to plan it carefully. We'll have a team of security personnel nearby, and we'll make sure Sunny is safe at all times. We can't let anything happen to her. But if we can catch the stalker in the act, we'll have solid evidence to go to the police with.”

Ye Ji thought about it for a moment. It was risky, but it was also their best chance at catching the stalker. She nodded slowly. “Okay, let's do it. But we have to make sure Sunny is safe.”

Jin nodded in agreement. “I'll start making the arrangements right away. We'll need to plan this carefully, so it might take a few days. But we'll get this person, I promise.”

Ye Ji thanked him and watched him leave her office. She knew it was risky, but she had to do something to protect Sunny and the rest of the group. She just hoped that the plan would work and they could finally put an end to this ordeal.

***

Meanwhile, Pink Generation's fourth album was quickly taking shape. The girls were excited to showcase their growth and maturity as artists.

They had been working on the album for months and were eager to share it with their fans. The album, titled ‘Rise Above,’ was a mix of pop, R&B, and ballads.

The lead single, ‘Tomorrow People,’ showcased Sunny's incredible vocal range, while the second single, ‘Vendetta,’ had a fun and upbeat vibe.

As the album's release date drew closer, the girls' excitement grew. They had worked hard to create something unique and special, and they couldn't wait to see how their fans would react.

Finally, the day arrived, and ‘Rise Above’ was released worldwide. Fans had been anticipating all night, and when it was available to stream online, streaming sites were packed with heavy traffic. The album quickly shot to the top of the charts, debuting at No. 3 in its first week.

The girls were ecstatic as they watched their album climb higher and higher on the charts. They knew that all their hard work had paid off and that their dreams were finally becoming a reality. As they celebrated their success, Julie and Tony toasted each other's accomplishments. She had come to his apartment this time around. She poked fun at him about his old TV. Julie and Tony's romance had started unexpectedly, but now it was one of the most important things in their lives.

They had been dating for a few months now, and Julie was head over heels for Tony. He was kind, charming, and considerate, and she felt grateful to have him in her life.

But their relationship was not without its challenges. As a popular actor, Tony's schedule was often packed with filming and promotional events, and Julie's schedule as a member of Pink Generation was just as hectic. They found it hard to spend time together, but when they did, they cherished every moment.

One evening, Julie had just finished a long day of practice with the rest of the group. She was exhausted, but she couldn't wait to see Tony. They had planned to have dinner together at a new restaurant in the city, and she was looking forward to some quality time with him. As she walked towards the restaurant, she noticed a group of fans standing outside, waiting for her.

They were holding signs with her name on them and calling out to her excitedly. Julie smiled and waved at them, but she was taken aback by the hateful words some of them were shouting at her. “You're not pretty enough to be in Pink Generation!” one fan yelled. “Why don't you just quit and let someone more talented take your place?” another jeered.

Julie felt her heart sink. She had dealt with criticism before, but the vitriol of these fans was particularly hurtful. She quickly made her way into the restaurant, hoping to escape their cruel words. Inside, Tony was waiting for her at a table in the corner.

He stood up as she approached and gave her a warm smile.

“You look beautiful,” he said, taking her hand and leading her to the table.

Julie felt a rush of gratitude for Tony's kind words. She had been feeling so down after the encounter with her fans, but being with Tony made her feel safe and loved.

As they sat down to eat, Tony listened intently as Julie recounted her experience outside the restaurant. He held her hand and told her how proud he was of her and all that she had accomplished.

“Those fans don't know what they're talking about,” he said. “You are one of the most talented and beautiful women I have ever met, and you deserve all the success in the world.”

Julie felt her heart swell with love for Tony. He always knew how to make her feel better, no matter what was going on in her life. Their dinner was filled with laughter and stories, and they savored every moment together. When they left the restaurant, Tony walked Julie to her car and gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead.

“I'll see you soon,” he said, waving as she drove away.

Julie felt a sense of contentment wash over her as she went home. No matter what challenges she faced, she knew that she could count on Tony to be there for her, to lift her when she was feeling down.

As she settled into bed that night, she couldn't help but think about how lucky she was to have him in her life. She drifted off to sleep with a smile on her face, dreaming of all the adventures that lay ahead for them.

***

It was a chilly autumn night, and Tony planned a unique date for Julie. They met at a ranch outside Seoul. Tony arranged a moonlight riding experience.

Julie liked the idea, but she couldn't shake off her hateful emails from her fans recently. Tony noticed the sadness on her face and decided to help her get through it.

As they rode, Tony said, “I want to try another kind of movie.”

“What kind of movie?” Julie asked, curiously.

“Well, I've always wanted to be in an epic fantasy movie that's set hundreds of years in the past. You know, sword fighting, horseback riding, and everything else.”

Julie piqued her interest. “Really? That's great. Why haven't you done this type of film before?”

Tony shrugged and said, “I don't think I've found the right script or the right director. But I hope I get the chance one day.”

Julie smiled, “Absolutely. You are a great actor, Tony.”

They rode in silence for a while, enjoying the quiet surroundings. Tony opened his mouth again. “And please know that it's not your fault for the hateful emails you've received for Julie. Your fans are too crazy, and you're human too. Sometimes I forget.”

Julie nodded.

“I know you're feeling overwhelmed these days.” Tony continued. “But don't let that get you down. You're a great singer, and you've inspired a lot of people with your music. Focus on that and let the haters come later.”

Julie smiled happily, “Thank you, Tony. You always know how to make me feel better.”

Tony grinned. “That's what I'm here for. Speaking of feeling better, here's another surprise.”

Julie raised her eyebrows. “A surprise again?”

Tony chuckles and says, “Yeah, just one more. We're closing out the night with a private concert.”

Julie rolled her eyes and said, “Private concert? For whom?”

“For us, Julie. It's mostly your music, though," he said, smiling.

She always liked it when he smiled.

Julie was overwhelmed with her gratitude. She never let anyone go that far to make her feel special. When they settled in for a private concert, Julie realized that Tony Lee was truly an old soul, with a heart full of kindness and empathy.

***

The sun had begun to peel through the clouds above Seoul. It was usual to see people jogging at this time, hurrying back home to get prepared for work. Sunny, always to maintain a good figure despite her forbidden meal pattern, had adopted this morning jog routine. She was always hooded, though, to avoid people knowing who she was.

She had just arrived at her apartment building when she saw a figure lurking behind the building, as though peeping at her. She went to check this out. Creeping by the wall, she moved silently. When she managed to get there, she found nothing.

She then turned to go back to her apartment when her hand got grabbed from behind her. She turned around and was ready to fight her attacker, but she saw it was a woman. She had thought it was a man.

“Who are you?” Sunny asked in amazement. “What are you doing here? Wait. Nelly?”

The woman's eyes widened excitedly. “I had to meet you. I needed to know if you were really the same girl I saved from drowning when I was little.”

Sunny was surprised. She always wondered who saved her all those years ago. She didn't know it, but now Nelly was right in front of her.

“That's me,” Sunny said, her smile spreading across her face. “Now I remember you. You were the one who pulled me out of the water.”

Nelly's face lit up with joy. “I can't believe you remember me!” she cried. “I've always wanted to talk to you, but I didn't know how to talk to you.”

“Why didn't you come over and say hello to me?” Sunny asked.

“It was scary,” Nelly admitted. “I thought you wouldn't remember me, or worse, you'd be mad at me for following you.”

Sunny shook her head. “I couldn't be mad at someone who saved my life,” she said. “Come on. Let's go inside and catch up.”

When they went to Sunny's apartment, Nelly told her about her life since she last saw her. She later became a successful businesswoman but always felt that something was missing in her life. She spent years looking for that missing piece until one day she saw Sunny performing with Pink Generation on TV.

Sunny was moved by Nelly's words and smiled. “You mean so much to me,” she said. “After all, you saved my life.”

Nelly nodded, and her eyes lit up with emotion. “Sorry for following you,” she said. “I couldn't help it. I had to meet you to know your existence.”

Sunny put her hand on Nelly's shoulder. “I'm fine,” she said. “I'm glad you're here now, and I'm glad we're finally catching up after so many years.”

“Again, I’m sorry,” Nelly said. “I really didn't know how to talk to you,” she continued, wiping her tears. “I so wanted to talk to you, but I didn't know what to say or how to react. I'm sorry, Sunny. I didn't mean to scare you or hurt you.”

Sunny sighed and felt a wave of her compassion wash over her as she remembered her childhood days playing in the river together and sharing her dreams for the future. She thought to herself. “I couldn't believe this was the same person who had been stalking her for so long.”

“It's okay, Nelly, it’s okay,” Sunny said.

Nelly took a deep breath and said, “I've always admired you, Sunny. Ever since we were kids. You were always so brave and confident, but when we went to different high schools, I started to feel like we were growing apart. I didn't want to lose you, so I started following you on social media and going to your concerts. I know it was wrong, but I couldn't help myself."

Sunny listened to Nelly's explanation, trying to understand the depth of her feelings. She couldn't deny that she had also felt the distance between them, but she didn't expect Nelly to take it this far.

“I appreciate your honesty, Nelly,” Sunny said. “But you have to understand that what you did was not only wrong but also dangerous. You could have caused harm to me or someone around me. You need to seek professional help to deal with these feelings.”

Nelly nodded, wiping her tears away again. “I know, and I'm sorry, Sunny. I will do whatever it takes to make it right.”

Sunny took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the situation lifting off her shoulders. She realized that Nelly was not a threat but someone who needed help.

“Okay, let's start by getting you some help,” Sunny said, standing up from the bench. “We can go see a therapist together and work through this. I still care about you, Nelly, and I want you to get better.”

Nelly stood up, looking grateful for Sunny's forgiveness. “Thank you, Sunny. You don't know how much this means to me.”

As they walked away from the park, Sunny felt a sense of relief and closure. She knew that the road ahead would not be easy, but she was ready to face it with Nelly by her side. They may have grown apart, but their past friendship was still worth saving.

***

Julie arrived at Sunny's apartment, slightly worried after her mysterious phone call. She wondered what had happened to her friend. Sunny was always protective of herself and never got in trouble. But she seemed nervous on her phone, and she said she needed to talk.

Sunny let her in and took her to her couch, where she offered her tea. Julie felt something was wrong. She took a sip of tea, felt warmth rushing down her throat, then turned to her friend.

“Sunny, what's wrong? You sounded worried on the phone.”

After a moment's hesitation, Sunny took a deep breath and said, “Julie, I have something to tell you about my stalker.”

Julie opened her eyes wide in surprise. She knew that Sunny had received strange messages and phone calls, but little did she know that it had escalated to the point of having a stalker. She put down the cup and turned to Sunny.

“Who was it, Sunny? Do you know the person?"

Sunny hesitated again. “Yes, I do, a woman named Nelly. We were in middle school together.”

Julie was astonished. “Nelly? You mean the same Nelly who saved your life when you were a kid?”

Sunny nodded slowly. “Yes, she is. I had no idea it was her until recently when I saw her hanging around outside my apartment.”

Julie saw the horror in Sunny's eyes. She reached out and put a hand on her shoulder to calm her down.

“It's okay, Sunny. We will sort it out. Can I stay with you tonight?”

Sunny nodded appreciatively. “Yes, that would be great. Thank you, Julie.”

Julie was with Sunny that night, keeping an eye out for Nelly's signs, but the stalker didn't show up. The two friends talked late into the night, reminiscing about their childhoods and exchanging ideas about each other's lives.

As the night wore on, Julie could see that Sunny was becoming more and more comfortable in her presence. Finally, Sunny turned to her and said, “Julie, you are my girl. I'm really happy to be your friend. You always know how to make me feel better.”

Julie smiled at her. “That's what friends do, Sunny. I'll always be there for you.”

As they embraced, Julie felt warmth and security, knowing that she would do anything to keep her friend out of harm's way.

***

It was only two days later that everything turned around positively for Julie. She was returning to her hotel after rehearsing when she noticed a young woman standing at the end of a bridge. She looked upset and lost in her thoughts. Julie stopped her car, alighted, and went towards the woman gently when she realized what was happening.

“Hey, don't do this,” Julie said, trying to hold her breath.

The woman turned to Julie in tears. “I can't go on like this. Life is too hard.”

Julie took a step closer and tried to connect. “I know life can be tough at times, but it's worth fighting for. Let's talk about it. What's up?”

The woman hesitated for a moment, but something was reassuring about her Julie's voice and her presence. They sat by the bridge and talked for a while. Julie listened to her carefully and offered comfort and support. She shared some of her struggles with anxiety and how she learned how to deal with it.

As the sun set, the woman began to calm down. She thanked Julie for being there and promised to ask for her help. Julie gave her a warm hug and watched her leave, thanking her.

A passerby had captured most of this on camera. It instantly went viral. It even bettered their music in virality.

***

By the next day, her Julie's story of heroism was in the press, and her fans had praised her for her courage and compassion. The hate mail seemed like a distant memory. Julie felt a purpose she had never felt before. She realized that music not only entertains people but also has a positive impact on people's lives. She had channeled a side of her not explored before to bring about good. That elated her.

The girls couldn't be any prouder. The team knew that this would help boost her public image and banish the ugliness that had prevailed over her for a while.

When Pink Generation began promoting the album, Julie spoke about her awareness of mental health and suicide prevention. She shared her own story and encouraged others to seek her help in their time of need. Fans listened intently, and many came forward to thank her for her words.

Julie knew she had found her true calling beyond music. She wanted to use her platform to help others and make a difference in the world. She felt her renewed hope and energy and was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead for her. She had overcome her hard period and was grateful. To cap it off, she saved a life. That would remain within her heart forever.