𝐏𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑 | kmg ( editing )

𝙭𝙭𝙭𝙫.

The CEO of Pledis sighed as he paused to take in the words of the idols.

"Are you sure you want to go down this path? Are you positive? You, Jiyeon, are a stylist, and Mingyu, you're an idol. The public will have a field day."

Before any of the Seventeen members, sat on opposite sides of the long conference table, had a chance to intervene, Mingyu took initiative. "Then let them have a field day. Respectfully, Jiyeon and I can assure you that we're aware of the consequences but on the contrary...we're ready for it." A smile of pride grew on my face as I heard Mingyuspeak. After talking it over, we both knew that it would be exhausting to not only endure the rumors on Mingyu's hand but also have to doge the public every time we wanted to do so much as take a stroll in the park.

My mind went to what Mingyu had said earlier.

"I'm in my eighth year of being an idol and not only has Seventeen gained respectful fans but we have also earned our place in the industry. Dating someone as gorgeous, thoughtful, and perfect as you cannot tarnish anything. And even if it does, I'm willing to risk it. So please. . don't worry about me."

And goodness gracious did I hope he was speaking nothing but the truth. I, on the other hand, had been dodging the fact that I was friends with Soonyoung and Kyungmin with anyone but them for years which had proved to be aggravatingly tiring. Plus, I was still allowed to keep my job at HYBE and sure, I would get some looks, but what were a few glares compared to being able to hang out with my boyfriend and best friends?

"And just to back him up..." At my words, all eyes immediately turned towards me.

"Not being able to even do so much as get lunch with my best friends and having to sneak around just to be able to see my boyfriend has been absolute hell. At this point, I have every reason on my own accord to risk it. I know that it is the norm to hide in this industry, but if Mingyu and the members are on board, then I think it's okay to step out of that expectation." I saw Soonyoung smile as I spoke and I knew I'd communicated well, especially when I felt Mingyu squeeze my hand. And no, it wasn't like I was petrified or anything but talking to a literal CEO was more or less intimidating. I was quite literally shaking in my boots.

The next voice I heard was surprisingly Seungcheol's. "I can assure you that they do love each other and Jiyeon is a wonderful person. Speaking for the entirety of Seventeen, we completely support and are ready for the outcome of this decision whatever it may be. Each other's
happiness and well-being are always at the forefront, and if going public is what makes Mingyu happy, then I completely support it." Leave it to Seungcheol to make an amazing statement. I caught myself smiling warmly as he praised me; he was genuine and that's what I loved about his personality. I could see why his members respected him so much because honestly, I do too.

It was completely silent for a few moments as I saw the two staff members in the room write a few notes down on their laptops. I turned to Soonyoung who was sitting to my right and saw him looking at me. A small smile took place on his face but before any words could come out of my mouth, I heard yet another sigh from the CEO.

"Very well then. The PR team will form a statement and we'll release it around 8 am tomorrow. So please, refrain from doing anything publicly until then." And with bows from us all, the meeting was officially over along with the chilling tension.

We exited the modern conference room in age order and by the time we had come out, smiles were on all of our faces. Of course, Mingyu and I were the only ones smiling so hard our teeth could fall off, but from my peripheral vision, I could see grins of admiration on the rest of the members. Both Mingyu and I were struggling way too hard to not jump in each other's arms but luckily Seungcheol's damage control saved the day. "So...I'm assuming you won't be at the dorm again tonight Mingyu?" A larger smile formed on the leader's face and an embarrassed one on Mingyu's.

"I'm happy for you guys." His statement earned a few grunts of agreement from the members but all I could focus on was Soonyoung,

"Actually uh, Soonyoung, could we talk? I know for a fact we need to get a few things sorted out." I suddenly felt Mingyu's thumb rubbing my hand comfortingly.

"Sure. I'll catch up with you guys later." At Hosh's statement, the rest of the Seventeen members had made their way to the elevators but Mingyu lingered around for a second, turning me around so my face met his. "I'll be in your apartment when you finish okay?" I could sense the worry in his tone but I could tell by the smile on his face he was trying to conceal it.

I leaned in and connected our lips briefly, enough to bring a genuine smile onto his face. "I got this okay?" And with a nod, Mingyu left the hallway, meaning Soonyoung and I were now forced to fight the awkward tension.