[Reimei Academy is a beautiful place. Its illustrious brick buildings give it that elegant, upper class feel and it is at these gleaming gates that Hiyori waits.
... or rather, where Hiyori should be waiting. He was instructed to meet his new fiancée at the gates, after all. It's his job to give her a tour today and it's meant to further develop their bond, even though Hiyori had stated explicitly that he has no interest in going public with the news of the arranged marriage due to the detriment it would cause to his status as an idol. Still, he was given a job.
And he.
He might do it?
Regardless he's wandering over to the gates.... late. Quite late. With a set of soft pink shopping bags hanging off his arm. With his free hand, he waves carelessly.]
Hello, hello! It is i, Hiyori Tomoe of Reimei Academy.... ♪
I'm finally here and - hm, I suppose I'll apologize out of technicality, but I don't really want to! Since I've been given an annoying job that I don't want to do....
[It's fortunate (?) that Hiyori strolls up when he does, because Yona is about two seconds from stomping off to explore the school on her own. And if she did that, it would make her father sad.
Or... Something. That's why she hasn't really put her foot down about this yet; she has no intention of actually marrying this Hiyori Tomorrow, because her heart has been set on someone else for years.
Still, if the engagement will give her father a chance to accomplish something he wants to do, she'll play along with it until he gets what he wants.
And then she'll break up with him.
(No one ever said her plans were good.)]
Hmph! It's not like I want to do this either, you know. So save your phony apologies.
[Well, they're off to a great start.]
Edited (THIS PIECE OF SHIT PHONE) 2017-10-21 00:47 (UTC)
Yes yes, you're right for once! My apologies are so rare and fleeting they should only be given to people who've earned them.
[you kept her waiting and she doesn't deserve an apology are you sure, hiyori.
Still though he laughs faintly at his own narcissism and waves a hand - ]
Really I'm surprised you're still here! No one bothered to pick you up? How sad! Well, you're new so I suppose the hierarchy hasn't even registered your existence.
[something he throws out way too casually - Reimei Academy has a division between Special Admission students and Regular Admission. the hierarchy system is just what it sounds like and Special Admission student resident jackass Hiyori Tomoe thrives in it.
still he makes a waving gesture with his hand.]
So it really is left on me and my sense of charity to give you a tour.... mm, I don't want to, but I will. Remember to be thankful, okay?
[This, this right here, is why Yona hadn't wanted to go along with it. She knows firsthand from her father's business that idols can be pretty full of themselves sometimes - so of course the fact that he's going so far as to arrange an engagement in the hopes of getting Hiyori to sign with his record label when he graduates is going to go to his head.
Ugh. The worst.
If she tells her father about this, will he call it off, she wonders? She crosses her arms and fixes a glare on him as he keeps talking.
Her expression is definitely not thankful.]
I can show myself around.
[No she can't...
But she's sure going to try, tossing her hair over her shoulder as she sweeps past him to the school proper. Either that, or she could complain to the administrative offices, maybe? No... that would just make her look petty, even if it might land him in hot water.]
But if you want me to keep my mouth shut about how late you were, you better buy me something cute next time you go shopping!
[And this is where he's going to trail after her for a moment, pulling something out of one of those absurdly pink shopping bags that hang on his arm. He reaches out to pick up a lock of hair, walking to match her pace so that she doesn't feel a pull. He snorts faintly.]
Did you even brush it this morning? What a lion's mane!
[RUDE.
But regardless he plays with the hair of others fairly often and it's why he doesn't hesitate to collect her locks of hair and twist them into an updo, taking the floral clip in his hand and expertly clipping her hair up in no time at all.]
Now I believe you promised to keep your mouth shut, didn't you? [He smiles openly, stepping around her then so he walks backwards as he tilts his head at her.] I can't be seen with some frumpy looking girl, you know. A cute face with no maintenance can only take you so far...
[She doesn't notice that he's picked up a lock of hair right away, since he's careful not to pull on it - the dangers of having too much hair, honestly. But she does notice when he speaks up and starts working with it.]
Hey, what are you—?!
[A lion's mane— Did she even brush it—]
Who asked you?!
[But she's well-behaved enough (???) to stay still while he's clipping it up. ...mostly it's because she doesn't want him to inadvertently yank on it; that would be a headache.]
But it actually stays up for once, instead of immediately falling out of the clip; Yona brings a hand up to brush her fingers against the floral decorations as the rest of what he's saying sinks in for her.
Then she smirks, leaning in a bit as they walk, her eyes sparkling with mischief.]
Hah! Even if you were rude about it - you did admit my face is cute. So, thank you.
[No one asked him for anything ever!! Which is a shame because he's pretty sure any job they can do, he can do better?
Hence why he's laughing at her mischief and her smirk, amused and delighted as if there isn't a single hiccup here to be found.]
Yes, yes! Because if I didn't have eyes, wouldn't that be quite a shame upon my ability to work as an idol? [Which is to say - no shit Yona's cute. He doesn't hesitate to reach out just to let one finger curl underneath her chin as he half leans in to meet her, because he's not the type to be outdone on... anything....] Consider beauty to be one of your few virtues.
[TERRIBLE.
And then he's winking anyway.]
I'm the type of person who won't stand for even a second next to someone I dislike, you know?
[how does he so confidently say such... awful things...]
Her heart actually skips a beat at the touch of his finger against her chin, and she hates it. Stupid, traitorous heart! It's only supposed to do that for Soo-won.
It's probably just because Hiyori's an idol, she decides as she turns her head so that she doesn't have to look right at his stupid, pretty eyes. Whether she likes him or not, she can't deny that he's charismatic.]
That's something you're going to need to fix, you know? Keep talking like that and you'll alienate your fans.
[And he tilts his head, retracting his hand and turning on his heel with an unfair amount of grace as he makes a wide gesture with his hands, shrugging openly.]
It's the job of an idol to provide dreams to fans and so I certainly wouldn't speak like this to any of them! They're the ones who determine my success so I have to be on better behavior despite my awful personality.... but that's only on stage! Or interviews, I suppose, but that's just detail work.
[He glances back at her and smiles.]
I'm not obligated to make your girlish dreams come true.
[you'RE ENGAGED]
So flattering you is just for fun. The flustered look on your face isn't something I hate.
I don't want you to make my dreams come true anyway!
[Wait. Wait, that came out all wrong. Yona flounders for a moment, before taking a step forward and jabbing a finger at his chest. Okay, stay calm, explain this gracefully, it's fine.]
And it's impossible for you to make them come true in the first place, because my dreams don't involve you at all.
[—failed step one.]
Let me make this clear: you're not doing this because you want to. I'm not, either. I already have someone I love. This is just something our parents decided, so don't go thinking any of the faces I make are for you, whether you dislike them or not.
Hmm? [Hiyori tilts his head at that - curious, before his expression lights up.] Ah, I see, I see! You must be in love with a ghost then, right? An apparition only you can see? Yes yes, truly a tragic love story—
[why.
because then he'll be grinning again and just cONTINUOUSLY STEAMROLLING WITH HIS OWN VERSION OF EVENTS]
That has to be it - because otherwise it's only you and I? And naturally, if it's just my wonderful self here, who else could you be blushing for? It's not like this is your pitiful and sad excuse at trying to deny that I'm charming, right? That would be far too sad!
[HIYORI. and he waves a hand, laughing as he turns back to walking toward the large, old buildings to actually give this tour.]
Silly girl - you'll find that some things are irresistible in due time.
Every word you speak makes you less and less charming. Maybe you should stick to singing.
[She is really going to have to up her game. It feels like this is some kind of challenge that she's failed at (it isn't), and she's never been content to just fail; she's going to have to improve so that she can turn around and give Hiyori a taste of his own medicine.
(Spite really is a powerful motivator.)]
The person I love is so wonderful that even just thinking about him when he's not here makes me happy. You have a long way to go before you can get that kind of a response out of anyone.
[Is Soo-won an idol? ...let's just say he is now. Yes.]
Anyway! You have a job to do now, so hurry up and give me that tour.
Hmm... I don't really want to, but I will since I have to walk anyway!
[He goes to class sometimes.... but he'll walk around and point out buildings at random - ]
Let's see, let's see, what's interesting... That's the direction of the library, not that I expect an empty-headed girl like you to inquiry too deeply about that. There's food that way if the princess doesn't have her meals specially made by a chef and then delivered to campus. The gymnasium where all the sweaty meatheads play... something.... with a ball. Or is it a disc?
Oh well, I don't care so I don't remember!
[SHRUGS.]
And that concludes your tour, hopefully you enjoy your stay but it's not on me if you do or do not....
Yona is left feeling overwhelmed and underwhelmed all at the same time. What she's taking away from this is that she's getting the location of the buildings from him and not much else, which is fine, she supposes; still, couldn't someone a little more helpful have shown her around?
Stupid engagement. At least word of this hasn't gotten back to Soo-won yet.]
I don't need luck, it's just school. But thank you.
[Time to figure out where her first class is...! Or something!
Hiyori hums thoughtfully as he watches her for a moment, tilting his head. It would be funny if she missed her first class of the day and ended up completely ruining her schedule as a result. It would put her off on the wrong foot for her time here and at Reimei Academy where hierarchy and appearances count for everything, that would be absolutely destructive.
So he pauses.
Lets her walk a few more steps.
Sighs incredibly loudly as he uses his long strides to catch up with her and then reaches out a hand to try to take hold of hers to guide her into a twirl to have her face the other direction - ]
What a hopeless girl you are. ♪ It's almost worrying, you know?
I suppose this can be my one good deed today, since I have a quota I must fulfill! This way, this way.
Yona should have used the time she was waiting for him more productively. She should have explored on her own, scouted out her classes, figured out exactly where she needed to go so she could walk around like she owned the place -
But honestly, the last thing she wanted was for him to show up when she wasn't there and turn it around like she was the one who messed up.
Her cheeks flush with embarrassment when he catches her, but luckily, she doesn't stumble when he twirls her! In fact, she actually manages to end it somewhat gracefully, glancing over her shoulder and giving a little curtsy in gratitude.]
I-I knew that! I was just... testing you. To see if you'd filled your quota already or not.
[Of course, her actual words sort of ruin the grateful gesture, but eh.]
Ah, I see, I see! I don't believe you, but even with your lie, I pass with flying colors, don't I?
[what a horrendous human being.
regardless he'll immediately let go off her hand and make a small flicking motion as if to get her germs off of him because he doesn't very much like to touch people when he doesn't have to. there's still a perfect smile on his face even as he completely ignores both her gratitude and her lie.]
Well, this way I suppose... Hurry up - it does matter much if I'm late, but I'd rather not have a mark on my record because of you, you know?
[and he'll actually properly lead and walk her to her first class now. why couldn't he do that in the first place?]
You'll find someone else to lead you around the rest of the day, won't you? Or do I need to assign someone to do that?
[DOES SHE HAVE TO ANSWER THIS HONESTLY because the answer is yes and she doesn't want to admit it.]
You don't have to worry about that. I can figure it out for myself!
[She'll charm someone else into showing her around, maybe. She can be charming when she wants to be - she just really, really doesn't want to be right now. Knowing him, he'd chalk it up to his own influence if she was.]
In fact, we can just stay far away from each other while we're in school. There's no reason why we should have to spend a ton of time together just because our parents decided this was going to happen.
[Except they're totally going to have to because there would be no point in a PSL if they were just going to avoid each other all day every day.]
It's rather small-minded and nonsensical how an idol's worth and popularity are directly correlated to how easily young girls can project their dreams and fantasies of love onto them, but that's the world we live in! And I can't very well accept the love of my fans if I were to be betrothed, yes?
So let's never speak of the topic again.
[hiyori whY.
Regardless he's just going to hum happily as he gestures for some poor student to hold the door open for them. Whether via hierarchy or just not wanting to listen to Hiyori complain, the student does so.]
Don't require my guidance, okay? I like to cherish and look after cute things, but I can't have you getting the wrong idea so early....
[That's... her way of agreeing and not talking about it, although a small, petty part of him is tempted to point out that if he was really a compelling performer, he'd still be able to attract the love of his fans even if they knew he was engaged.
But there are other students nearby, and she doesn't want them to know, so she stubbornly keeps her mouth shut... on that topic, anyway.
On the other:]
I don't want or need your guidance! I'm sure there are plenty of other people here who will be much more helpful and charming than you are.
[Let's do something fun, her father had said after school that day, trying to cheer her up. So of course she'd agreed, but how could she have known that when he said something fun he really meant let's go watch your fiancé perform?
She doesn't want to enjoy herself.
But... despite that, she does. She's probably easy enough to pick out of the crowd, with her bright-red hair, and at first she's looking petulant. But she starts to tap her foot to the beat as Hiyori sings, and then without realizing it, she's smiling and laughing and enjoying herself along with the rest of the audience and her heart might have skipped a beat a little and this is so many different levels of not okay.
She turns away from the stage, putting her hands over her heart, and tries to will it to stop doing that. It's only supposed to do that when she thinks about Soo-won, damn it.
It must just be the atmosphere of the venue... she's not used to all the idols yet. She needs to get used to it.
A bit later, after another group has come onstage, Yona turns to get her father's attention.]
...Father!
[Her father looks to her, oblivious to the hell she's about to unleash.]
I'm going to transfer from the producer course to the idol course at school!
[...Yona announces, oblivious to the fact that Hiyori is now within hearing range.]
[Hiyori knows that something in his personality is broken. He's demanding, impossible, selfish, and occasionally ruthless. There's something about him that puts other people off, wonders if he can ever be trusted, even though he feels little shards of his heart break apart every time he's hated again. But that's how it is. It's how he is.
On the stage, it's different.
On the stage, if he puts on a good show, he'll only feel the love from the crowd. He thrives off their energy, he wants his smiles to inspire their own. He dances, sings, and performs with everything that he has - every single step polished as his natural charisma resonates right down to his very fingertips.
In Reimei Academy, Eve are the top unit. Eve is a two-person unit where Hiyori is the leader and senior member. Hiyori is the top idol of the academy and while some may wonder if it's because of family ties, he proves them wrong every time. It's talent and hard work - and this desperate, unflinching, shameless desire to be loved.
He noticed Yona in the crowd and gave her every dazzling smile that he could until she herself smiled. At the first parting of her lips, he almost laughed into his microphone - but if at all possible, he shined brighter.
They're backstage now and as much as Hiyori would rather retire for the night, his fiancee's father did ask for a meeting with him. He's still ambling up to them, decked out in idol gear and a towel wrapped around his neck when he hears her declaration.
It makes him - smile? Laugh? Sincerely....]
Did you have that much fun...?!
[And he wants to know. He's not mocking her for once. Her good time is important to him as a performer, after all.]
[The answer is near-instantaneous, and it comes before she really places Hiyori's voice. To be completely fair, she doesn't know him that well yet, and her experience so far with him talking has been him mocking her every time he opens his mouth.
When she turns to face him, her expression is bright-eyed and sincere.]
I—
[...aaaand then she realizes who's talking to her.]
[The look on her face shifts rapidly - embarrassment settles in pretty fast, but she makes an effort to school her expression into something less caught out and more determined (albeit still rather flustered), and one of her hands closes into a fist.]
I'm going to have even more fun performing! I'll be your biggest competition. You'll see!
[Behind them, her father tries to cut in with something about but the producer course will help you when you take over the business, but she ignores him, as she tends to do.
[The first look on her face was so cute.... but this second one isn't bad either? He raises a brow in challenge but nothing actually manages to detract from the light in his eyes. He uses the towel around his neck to wipe at his face one more time because it's important to be perfect at all times but -
He turns to Il (his future father in law? what a laugh) and answers him since Yona won't.]
But to be a competent manager in the entertainment business, what better way to discover effective strategies than partaking in the game yourself?
[And he'll manage a wink for Yona. He's got you covered.
His good mood apparently continues on, high off the adrenaline and praise, because he hums happily.]
You'll probably need pointers so don't hesitate to ask, okay? You're too cute to fail!
[And in one way that could mean "because she's so cute, it'd be impossible for her to fail" but he probably means it more like "it'd be even more devastating and pathetic if she didn't succeed, given her already cute face."
He leaves it open for interpretation, given that Il is still there.]
[Il is probably the only reason Yona isn't picking a fight with him, so it's a good thing they're being chaperoned.
Il also looks like he wants to tell Hiyori not to encourage her, but a father knows his daughter, and he can tell that even if he did, it would be too little, too late - Yona's mind is already made up. He sighs lightly and his shoulders slump the slightest bit in resignation.
"Well, I suppose that's true..."
Of course, he's still a little hesitant since the industry runs on Idol Tears™ and all (which he's very aware of, being in the position he's in). Yona, meanwhile, takes full advantage of the fact that Hiyori can't outright be rude to her with her father present. She smiles brightly at him.]
Thank you! I'll do my best not to bother you with too many questions, though.
[translation: i'm going to be so cute i won't NEED your help]
Regardless he laughs - because it's not something that he dislikes. Hiyori won't be outright rude to her right now, but there is something sincere in the way that he tilts his head and looks at her with a budding fondness. He likes to pick things up and treasure them, whether it be cute dogs or people who have lost their way. It'd be bad for her to get the wrong idea...
But worse than that, it'd be terrible if she were to fail and he were to be stuck in this extended engagement. Helping her would help him.
Yet there's something genuinely soft and sincere in his expression as he hums - ]
You needn't worry, Il-san. [he so rarely uses proper honorifics with anyone...] I'll take care of her to the best of my ability.
[Il does indeed look a little more at ease when Hiyori says he'll take care of her. As he's been able to see, Hiyori's ability is rather on-point - so he feels that he can safely entrust Yona to him.
In the context of Reimei Academy, anyway.
This doesn't mean he wants to leave them unchaperoned.
"Very well... she'll be relying on your guidance." Yona makes a face, which her father doesn't see - or does he? - before he nudges her lightly. "Thank him again, Yona."
[Leave them unchaperoned, Il!!!! Hiyori is so, so clearly on his best behavior after all. Regardless he gives a smile at that, gracious and welcoming. It's all part of being an idol to know exactly what mask to put on in order to be loved, after all.]
You're welcome, Yona.
[A tilt of his head.]
If we're to be married then I'd best practice how to properly look after you, shouldn't I? I'm sure there's a lot to learn.
[ - because you need so much help.
Also if they're to be married.
But if he says it angelically enough surely it doesn't raise any red flags.]
[If. Big if. The biggest if there is, because Yona fully intends to get out of this, somehow.
...but that's not something she can say in front of her father, either. Somehow she gets the idea that she and Hiyori have the same thing in mind, which is as much of a relief as it is an annoyance. She can count on him not to raise a stink if she makes her way out of this engagement, but she doesn't want to be in sync with him.
At all.
Ever.]
Looking after me isn't as difficult as you're imagining. [Il knows that's not true, but he holds his tongue. He doesn't want this engagement to fall through, after all.] Still, I appreciate your help.
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new rules (new schools).
... or rather, where Hiyori should be waiting. He was instructed to meet his new fiancée at the gates, after all. It's his job to give her a tour today and it's meant to further develop their bond, even though Hiyori had stated explicitly that he has no interest in going public with the news of the arranged marriage due to the detriment it would cause to his status as an idol. Still, he was given a job.
And he.
He might do it?
Regardless he's wandering over to the gates.... late. Quite late. With a set of soft pink shopping bags hanging off his arm. With his free hand, he waves carelessly.]
Hello, hello! It is i, Hiyori Tomoe of Reimei Academy.... ♪
I'm finally here and - hm, I suppose I'll apologize out of technicality, but I don't really want to! Since I've been given an annoying job that I don't want to do....
[That's pleasant.]
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Or... Something. That's why she hasn't really put her foot down about this yet; she has no intention of actually marrying this Hiyori Tomorrow, because her heart has been set on someone else for years.
Still, if the engagement will give her father a chance to accomplish something he wants to do, she'll play along with it until he gets what he wants.
And then she'll break up with him.
(No one ever said her plans were good.)]
Hmph! It's not like I want to do this either, you know. So save your phony apologies.
[Well, they're off to a great start.]
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[you kept her waiting and she doesn't deserve an apology are you sure, hiyori.
Still though he laughs faintly at his own narcissism and waves a hand - ]
Really I'm surprised you're still here! No one bothered to pick you up? How sad! Well, you're new so I suppose the hierarchy hasn't even registered your existence.
[something he throws out way too casually - Reimei Academy has a division between Special Admission students and Regular Admission. the hierarchy system is just what it sounds like and Special Admission student resident jackass Hiyori Tomoe thrives in it.
still he makes a waving gesture with his hand.]
So it really is left on me and my sense of charity to give you a tour.... mm, I don't want to, but I will. Remember to be thankful, okay?
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Ugh. The worst.
If she tells her father about this, will he call it off, she wonders? She crosses her arms and fixes a glare on him as he keeps talking.
Her expression is definitely not thankful.]
I can show myself around.
[No she can't...
But she's sure going to try, tossing her hair over her shoulder as she sweeps past him to the school proper. Either that, or she could complain to the administrative offices, maybe? No... that would just make her look petty, even if it might land him in hot water.]
But if you want me to keep my mouth shut about how late you were, you better buy me something cute next time you go shopping!
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[And this is where he's going to trail after her for a moment, pulling something out of one of those absurdly pink shopping bags that hang on his arm. He reaches out to pick up a lock of hair, walking to match her pace so that she doesn't feel a pull. He snorts faintly.]
Did you even brush it this morning? What a lion's mane!
[RUDE.
But regardless he plays with the hair of others fairly often and it's why he doesn't hesitate to collect her locks of hair and twist them into an updo, taking the floral clip in his hand and expertly clipping her hair up in no time at all.]
Now I believe you promised to keep your mouth shut, didn't you? [He smiles openly, stepping around her then so he walks backwards as he tilts his head at her.] I can't be seen with some frumpy looking girl, you know. A cute face with no maintenance can only take you so far...
1/2
Hey, what are you—?!
[A lion's mane— Did she even brush it—]
Who asked you?!
[But she's well-behaved enough (???) to stay still while he's clipping it up. ...mostly it's because she doesn't want him to inadvertently yank on it; that would be a headache.]
2/2
But it actually stays up for once, instead of immediately falling out of the clip; Yona brings a hand up to brush her fingers against the floral decorations as the rest of what he's saying sinks in for her.
Then she smirks, leaning in a bit as they walk, her eyes sparkling with mischief.]
Hah! Even if you were rude about it - you did admit my face is cute. So, thank you.
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Hence why he's laughing at her mischief and her smirk, amused and delighted as if there isn't a single hiccup here to be found.]
Yes, yes! Because if I didn't have eyes, wouldn't that be quite a shame upon my ability to work as an idol? [Which is to say - no shit Yona's cute. He doesn't hesitate to reach out just to let one finger curl underneath her chin as he half leans in to meet her, because he's not the type to be outdone on... anything....] Consider beauty to be one of your few virtues.
[TERRIBLE.
And then he's winking anyway.]
I'm the type of person who won't stand for even a second next to someone I dislike, you know?
[how does he so confidently say such... awful things...]
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Her heart actually skips a beat at the touch of his finger against her chin, and she hates it. Stupid, traitorous heart! It's only supposed to do that for Soo-won.
It's probably just because Hiyori's an idol, she decides as she turns her head so that she doesn't have to look right at his stupid, pretty eyes. Whether she likes him or not, she can't deny that he's charismatic.]
That's something you're going to need to fix, you know? Keep talking like that and you'll alienate your fans.
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[And he tilts his head, retracting his hand and turning on his heel with an unfair amount of grace as he makes a wide gesture with his hands, shrugging openly.]
It's the job of an idol to provide dreams to fans and so I certainly wouldn't speak like this to any of them! They're the ones who determine my success so I have to be on better behavior despite my awful personality.... but that's only on stage! Or interviews, I suppose, but that's just detail work.
[He glances back at her and smiles.]
I'm not obligated to make your girlish dreams come true.
[you'RE ENGAGED]
So flattering you is just for fun. The flustered look on your face isn't something I hate.
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I don't want you to make my dreams come true anyway!
[Wait. Wait, that came out all wrong. Yona flounders for a moment, before taking a step forward and jabbing a finger at his chest. Okay, stay calm, explain this gracefully, it's fine.]
And it's impossible for you to make them come true in the first place, because my dreams don't involve you at all.
[—failed step one.]
Let me make this clear: you're not doing this because you want to. I'm not, either. I already have someone I love. This is just something our parents decided, so don't go thinking any of the faces I make are for you, whether you dislike them or not.
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[why.
because then he'll be grinning again and just cONTINUOUSLY STEAMROLLING WITH HIS OWN VERSION OF EVENTS]
That has to be it - because otherwise it's only you and I? And naturally, if it's just my wonderful self here, who else could you be blushing for? It's not like this is your pitiful and sad excuse at trying to deny that I'm charming, right? That would be far too sad!
[HIYORI. and he waves a hand, laughing as he turns back to walking toward the large, old buildings to actually give this tour.]
Silly girl - you'll find that some things are irresistible in due time.
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[She is really going to have to up her game. It feels like this is some kind of challenge that she's failed at (it isn't), and she's never been content to just fail; she's going to have to improve so that she can turn around and give Hiyori a taste of his own medicine.
(Spite really is a powerful motivator.)]
The person I love is so wonderful that even just thinking about him when he's not here makes me happy. You have a long way to go before you can get that kind of a response out of anyone.
[Is Soo-won an idol? ...let's just say he is now. Yes.]
Anyway! You have a job to do now, so hurry up and give me that tour.
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[He goes to class sometimes.... but he'll walk around and point out buildings at random - ]
Let's see, let's see, what's interesting... That's the direction of the library, not that I expect an empty-headed girl like you to inquiry too deeply about that. There's food that way if the princess doesn't have her meals specially made by a chef and then delivered to campus. The gymnasium where all the sweaty meatheads play... something.... with a ball. Or is it a disc?
Oh well, I don't care so I don't remember!
[SHRUGS.]
And that concludes your tour, hopefully you enjoy your stay but it's not on me if you do or do not....
Good luck, I suppose?
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Yona is left feeling overwhelmed and underwhelmed all at the same time. What she's taking away from this is that she's getting the location of the buildings from him and not much else, which is fine, she supposes; still, couldn't someone a little more helpful have shown her around?
Stupid engagement. At least word of this hasn't gotten back to Soo-won yet.]
I don't need luck, it's just school. But thank you.
[Time to figure out where her first class is...! Or something!
...she's walking in the wrong direction, oops.]
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Hiyori hums thoughtfully as he watches her for a moment, tilting his head. It would be funny if she missed her first class of the day and ended up completely ruining her schedule as a result. It would put her off on the wrong foot for her time here and at Reimei Academy where hierarchy and appearances count for everything, that would be absolutely destructive.
So he pauses.
Lets her walk a few more steps.
Sighs incredibly loudly as he uses his long strides to catch up with her and then reaches out a hand to try to take hold of hers to guide her into a twirl to have her face the other direction - ]
What a hopeless girl you are. ♪ It's almost worrying, you know?
I suppose this can be my one good deed today, since I have a quota I must fulfill! This way, this way.
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Yona should have used the time she was waiting for him more productively. She should have explored on her own, scouted out her classes, figured out exactly where she needed to go so she could walk around like she owned the place -
But honestly, the last thing she wanted was for him to show up when she wasn't there and turn it around like she was the one who messed up.
Her cheeks flush with embarrassment when he catches her, but luckily, she doesn't stumble when he twirls her! In fact, she actually manages to end it somewhat gracefully, glancing over her shoulder and giving a little curtsy in gratitude.]
I-I knew that! I was just... testing you. To see if you'd filled your quota already or not.
[Of course, her actual words sort of ruin the grateful gesture, but eh.]
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[what a horrendous human being.
regardless he'll immediately let go off her hand and make a small flicking motion as if to get her germs off of him because he doesn't very much like to touch people when he doesn't have to. there's still a perfect smile on his face even as he completely ignores both her gratitude and her lie.]
Well, this way I suppose... Hurry up - it does matter much if I'm late, but I'd rather not have a mark on my record because of you, you know?
[and he'll actually properly lead and walk her to her first class now. why couldn't he do that in the first place?]
You'll find someone else to lead you around the rest of the day, won't you? Or do I need to assign someone to do that?
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You don't have to worry about that. I can figure it out for myself!
[She'll charm someone else into showing her around, maybe. She can be charming when she wants to be - she just really, really doesn't want to be right now. Knowing him, he'd chalk it up to his own influence if she was.]
In fact, we can just stay far away from each other while we're in school. There's no reason why we should have to spend a ton of time together just because our parents decided this was going to happen.
[Except they're totally going to have to because there would be no point in a PSL if they were just going to avoid each other all day every day.]
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[SO BREEZILY.]
It's rather small-minded and nonsensical how an idol's worth and popularity are directly correlated to how easily young girls can project their dreams and fantasies of love onto them, but that's the world we live in! And I can't very well accept the love of my fans if I were to be betrothed, yes?
So let's never speak of the topic again.
[hiyori whY.
Regardless he's just going to hum happily as he gestures for some poor student to hold the door open for them. Whether via hierarchy or just not wanting to listen to Hiyori complain, the student does so.]
Don't require my guidance, okay? I like to cherish and look after cute things, but I can't have you getting the wrong idea so early....
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[That's... her way of agreeing and not talking about it, although a small, petty part of him is tempted to point out that if he was really a compelling performer, he'd still be able to attract the love of his fans even if they knew he was engaged.
But there are other students nearby, and she doesn't want them to know, so she stubbornly keeps her mouth shut... on that topic, anyway.
On the other:]
I don't want or need your guidance! I'm sure there are plenty of other people here who will be much more helpful and charming than you are.
[aaaand off to class she stomps]
kira kira ✨
She doesn't want to enjoy herself.
But... despite that, she does. She's probably easy enough to pick out of the crowd, with her bright-red hair, and at first she's looking petulant. But she starts to tap her foot to the beat as Hiyori sings, and then without realizing it, she's smiling and laughing and enjoying herself along with the rest of the audience and her heart might have skipped a beat a little and this is so many different levels of not okay.
She turns away from the stage, putting her hands over her heart, and tries to will it to stop doing that. It's only supposed to do that when she thinks about Soo-won, damn it.
It must just be the atmosphere of the venue... she's not used to all the idols yet. She needs to get used to it.
A bit later, after another group has come onstage, Yona turns to get her father's attention.]
...Father!
[Her father looks to her, oblivious to the hell she's about to unleash.]
I'm going to transfer from the producer course to the idol course at school!
[...Yona announces, oblivious to the fact that Hiyori is now within hearing range.]
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On the stage, it's different.
On the stage, if he puts on a good show, he'll only feel the love from the crowd. He thrives off their energy, he wants his smiles to inspire their own. He dances, sings, and performs with everything that he has - every single step polished as his natural charisma resonates right down to his very fingertips.
In Reimei Academy, Eve are the top unit. Eve is a two-person unit where Hiyori is the leader and senior member. Hiyori is the top idol of the academy and while some may wonder if it's because of family ties, he proves them wrong every time. It's talent and hard work - and this desperate, unflinching, shameless desire to be loved.
He noticed Yona in the crowd and gave her every dazzling smile that he could until she herself smiled. At the first parting of her lips, he almost laughed into his microphone - but if at all possible, he shined brighter.
They're backstage now and as much as Hiyori would rather retire for the night, his fiancee's father did ask for a meeting with him. He's still ambling up to them, decked out in idol gear and a towel wrapped around his neck when he hears her declaration.
It makes him - smile? Laugh? Sincerely....]
Did you have that much fun...?!
[And he wants to know. He's not mocking her for once. Her good time is important to him as a performer, after all.]
1/2
[The answer is near-instantaneous, and it comes before she really places Hiyori's voice. To be completely fair, she doesn't know him that well yet, and her experience so far with him talking has been him mocking her every time he opens his mouth.
When she turns to face him, her expression is bright-eyed and sincere.]
I—
[...aaaand then she realizes who's talking to her.]
2/2
I'm going to have even more fun performing! I'll be your biggest competition. You'll see!
[Behind them, her father tries to cut in with something about but the producer course will help you when you take over the business, but she ignores him, as she tends to do.
Sorry Il.]
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He turns to Il (his future father in law? what a laugh) and answers him since Yona won't.]
But to be a competent manager in the entertainment business, what better way to discover effective strategies than partaking in the game yourself?
[And he'll manage a wink for Yona. He's got you covered.
His good mood apparently continues on, high off the adrenaline and praise, because he hums happily.]
You'll probably need pointers so don't hesitate to ask, okay? You're too cute to fail!
[And in one way that could mean "because she's so cute, it'd be impossible for her to fail" but he probably means it more like "it'd be even more devastating and pathetic if she didn't succeed, given her already cute face."
He leaves it open for interpretation, given that Il is still there.]
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Il also looks like he wants to tell Hiyori not to encourage her, but a father knows his daughter, and he can tell that even if he did, it would be too little, too late - Yona's mind is already made up. He sighs lightly and his shoulders slump the slightest bit in resignation.
"Well, I suppose that's true..."
Of course, he's still a little hesitant since the industry runs on Idol Tears™ and all (which he's very aware of, being in the position he's in). Yona, meanwhile, takes full advantage of the fact that Hiyori can't outright be rude to her with her father present. She smiles brightly at him.]
Thank you! I'll do my best not to bother you with too many questions, though.
[translation: i'm going to be so cute i won't NEED your help]
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[translation: we'll see about that.
Regardless he laughs - because it's not something that he dislikes. Hiyori won't be outright rude to her right now, but there is something sincere in the way that he tilts his head and looks at her with a budding fondness. He likes to pick things up and treasure them, whether it be cute dogs or people who have lost their way. It'd be bad for her to get the wrong idea...
But worse than that, it'd be terrible if she were to fail and he were to be stuck in this extended engagement. Helping her would help him.
Yet there's something genuinely soft and sincere in his expression as he hums - ]
You needn't worry, Il-san. [he so rarely uses proper honorifics with anyone...] I'll take care of her to the best of my ability.
[and he... means that?]
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In the context of Reimei Academy, anyway.
This doesn't mean he wants to leave them unchaperoned.
"Very well... she'll be relying on your guidance." Yona makes a face, which her father doesn't see - or does he? - before he nudges her lightly. "Thank him again, Yona."
...ugh.]
...thanks for your help, Hiyori.
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You're welcome, Yona.
[A tilt of his head.]
If we're to be married then I'd best practice how to properly look after you, shouldn't I? I'm sure there's a lot to learn.
[ - because you need so much help.
Also if they're to be married.
But if he says it angelically enough surely it doesn't raise any red flags.]
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...but that's not something she can say in front of her father, either. Somehow she gets the idea that she and Hiyori have the same thing in mind, which is as much of a relief as it is an annoyance. She can count on him not to raise a stink if she makes her way out of this engagement, but she doesn't want to be in sync with him.
At all.
Ever.]
Looking after me isn't as difficult as you're imagining. [Il knows that's not true, but he holds his tongue. He doesn't want this engagement to fall through, after all.] Still, I appreciate your help.
[You glorified babysitter.
Yikes, Yona.]