melona

In university, there was a worshipped and admired group called "Team BEBE." This crew, renowned for its mesmerizing dance performances, held an uncommon status as the most recognized friend group on campus. Senior Bada Lee, Juniors Lusher, Kyma, Tatter, Sophomore Minah, and Freshmen Cheche and Soweon were the epitome of the popularity. They were the students everyone wanted to emulate, befriend, or perhaps even date. Yet, behind their iconic reputation, Team BEBE led lives of busyness, often hidden from the general public.

Despite their widespread recognition among the student body, Team BEBE maintained an intimate circle of friends and a few classmates. To them, popularity was secondary to their passion for dance and academic pursuits. Among the diverse crowd of their university, they navigated their busy schedules, balancing their commitments with dignity and determination.

To clarify, you existed in a different sphere of popularity. While you were not counted among the elite on campus, your name was frequently whispered in conversations revolving around popularity and the school's complex social hierarchy. Y/n Cruz, a Guatemalan-American international student who had graced the university since your freshman year. Your striking beauty and exceptional intelligence set you apart, but your warm, charismatic personality endeared you to anyone who interacted with you. Your name basically symbolized admiration, and your popularity transcended the boundaries of close friendships.

Popularity never swayed your humbleness, though. You remained consistently modest, friendly, and an inspiration to your peers. Every time you crossed the school's hallways, you were surrounded by your loyal friends who respected you with unwavering devotion. Your smile was a constant, a beacon of warmth that never failed to brighten your surroundings.

As the university semester progressed, the calendar page turned to a new month, and with it came an increased frenzy of activity. Team BEBE found themselves in the depths of preparation for a dance competition hosted at another school, a mere two weeks away. Simultaneously, they had committed to performing at their school's upcoming festival. It was a demanding juggling act, yet they diligently approached it. Dance held a special place in their hearts, and the ability to harmonize it with their academic pursuits made the long days and sleepless nights worth the effort.

Bada, their committed team leader, bore the burden of hectic schedules. As a senior, her academic responsibilities were more complex and time-consuming, demanding her attention early in the academic year. So, many of their practices were led by Lusher, her capable junior. On this particular day, Bada conducted a practice session before tackling her assignments, reaffirming her tenacious commitment to her beloved craft.

The studio atmosphere was charged with a noticeable sense of exhaustion. Beads of sweat glistened on Lusher's brow as she led the practice, her breathing mirroring her teammates. She glanced over at Bada, who was orchestrating the formation and couldn't help but feel sympathy. "Unnie," Lusher implored, her voice slightly strained, "can we take a five-minute breather?"

Bada, fully aware of their fatigue, hesitated momentarily before responding, "Seoyoung-ah, you know I would, but—" Her words were cut short by a discreet knock on the studio door. Bada and Lusher turned to the unexpected visitor, gesturing to be let in.

Bada, recognizing the newcomers, nodded in confirmation, and the door swung open to reveal three senior students. Lusher recognized some of them from seeing them around campus but couldn't understand why they were there. "Is it time already?" Bada inquired, and one of the seniors nodded affirmatively. "You have some time, though. N/n should be here in ten minutes."

The "N/n" caught Lusher's attention, a name unfamiliar to her until now. Curiosity piqued, she wondered why this person's arrival was significant enough to interrupt their practice. "All right, let me just finish this practice," Bada announced, determined to make the most of their limited time.

With her phone in hand, Bada approached Lusher and entrusted her with a task. "Do me a favor, Seoyoung-ah. Review the last minutes of the video, then send it to your own phone so you all can work on the dance while I'm gone." Lusher nodded, focusing on the video analysis as Bada conversed with her senior friends.

As Lusher focused on her task, Tatter, one of her team members, nudged her gently. Startled from her concentration, Lusher turned to Tatter with a questioning look. "What?" she asked.

Tatter pointed subtly toward the studio's entrance, and Lusher followed her gaze. What she saw left her momentarily breathless. Standing in the doorway was the sight of your tempting beauty.

Your caramel skin seemed to shimmer in the studio's lighting, while your wavy brunette hair cascaded in a high ponytail that flowed down to your hips. Your presence was nothing short of exquisite, and as you flashed your radiant smile, your pearly white teeth seemed to dazzle anyone who witnessed them. Lusher had surely seen you around campus before, and she'd often marveled at your beauty from afar. However, her busy schedule and the fact that you were a year ahead prevented her from ever encountering you.

Now, as she stood there, watching you with a mixture of awe and surprise, Lusher felt a newfound desire to bridge the gap that had separated her from you all this time. Your charm had always intrigued her, but this unexpected encounter had ignited a curiosity that was impossible to ignore.

Bada, wrapping up her conversation with her senior friends, rejoined the group and acknowledged your arrival. "Y/n-ah, nice of you to finally join us," Bada remarked, her tone playful. You responded with a light-hearted chuckle, your breath still slightly labored from your sprint to the studio. "Sorry," you began, "Ms. Hong held me back at the last minute."

Lusher watched the interaction between you and Bada, noticing the warmth in your friendship. It was a side of Bada she had never seen before, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation. As the conversation continued, Lusher couldn't help but wonder how deep this connection between you and Bada ran.

She was almost tempted to kneel before Bada, grateful she'd been allowed into your presence. The two blonde girls, Lusher and Bada, sat there, observing interactions between some of the school's most popular students. The conversation revolved around a forthcoming project that you needed to start this week due to your busy schedule next week. One of the other girls, not part of Team Bebe, pointed out, "So we should get going now?" Y/n nodded in agreement.

Team Bebe was taken aback by your remarkable accent when speaking fluent Korean. It was just one of the many aspects of you that people adored. Lusher, in particular, was determined to uncover all there was to know about you. As the seniors were about to leave, Bada gave the younger girls a mini salute, and you offered them a small wave.

Once the group had left, a deafening silence enveloped the dance studio, and the underclassmen stared at the door they had just exited. Minah scanned her spaced-out teammates and broke the silence, asking, "So are we supposed to act like that didn't just happen?"

"Did anyone know Bada-unnie was friends with Y/n-sunbaenim?" Everyone shook their heads in unison, and Lusher, still in shock, reclined on the floor, mentally replaying the scene. "Was she keeping their friendship a secret?" Soweon inquired, her arms crossed over her chest in frustration. "I doubt she would. Maybe they just met this year?" Tatter attempted to defend her leader, although none of the girls were entirely convinced. They all reached for their phones and opened the group chat.

Kyma🩵 Bada unnie?

Minah🩵 Bada unniiiiiiiieeeeeeee🤗

Tatter🩵 @Bada🩵, please pick up the phone so they can focus soon😮‍💨

Lusher🩵 How long have you and Y/n sunbaenim been friends?

While Lusher's unexpected question took aback the rest of Team Bebe, Bada stared at her phone in confusion. She had just left the room, so why hadn't they asked her then? "I didn't recognize any seniors in there," you pointed out, and Bada sighed, saying, "Yup, I'm the only one teaching them and leading it." You nodded and headed to Bada's car, but she hesitated momentarily. "Hey, we've been friends since our first year, right?" You nodded instantly, and Bada quickly typed away on her phone.

Bada🩵 Since our first year.

Upon receiving this new information, all the girls' jaws dropped inside the studio. "She was keeping it a secret?" "Maybe it just never came up?" Tatter, once again, attempted to cover for her best friend.

Lusher🩵 Why didn't we know this?😱

Bada🩵 Cause I know you guys are obsessed with her. Duh.

Lusher could practically hear Bada's sarcastic tone and rolled her eyes. "I swear she hates us," she mumbled, pouting while Tatter giggled. As the girls returned to their practice, the seniors went to the park to work on their assignment. The tall dancer, Bada, knew how people reacted to your presence. In fact, Team Bebe practically functioned as a fan club for you at this point. Bada had even noticed the subtle crushes some of the girls had on you, but Lusher was the one who appeared most infatuated. She often ranted about how good you looked and discussed your latest Instagram posts.

Bada had never brought up her friendship with you, even though the two of you were close. You had been each other's first friends in college, bonding over having the same major. You initially weren't sure if you could be friends with the towering girl, but as time passed, you discovered that you both shared the same major, making classes together inevitable. You often hung out during class, and other students loved the dynamic you both had. You were shorter, optimistic, smiley, and emotionally driven, while Bada was tall, appeared cold, and leaned towards being a pessimist, intellectually driven. You were the perfect definition of opposites attracting.

So, when Bada thought about her team, she figured the dancers wouldn't be able to handle the information. They might even use it to their advantage at some point. "So, you're going to be busy again with the festival?" Bada asked, and you nodded before sighing, "Yeah, but I'm also babysitting on those days."

"I don't know how you guys do it," one of your group mates said, her face reflecting her skepticism. "Bada has like 20 assignments, a dance competition, and you have two part-time jobs, your assignments, and the festival booth." You shrugged, and Bada chuckled. "When you love what you do, it doesn't make you feel busy," you explained, and Bada agreed. "She's not wrong."

"Speaking of the booths, can you come early next Friday?" Bada looked at your pleading eyes, tempted to tease you slightly. "Nah, I'm a little busy," she initially replied, causing your lips to pout as you grabbed her arm and shook it vigorously. "Dude, we need your height for the signs. You can even come later if you want." Bada laughed at your desperation. "Of course, I'll help you, N/n."

On the festival day, you and the baking club worked diligently to set up the booth. Boxes upon boxes of delectable desserts filled the display area. Some students passed by, watching as you organized the treats. Your eyes gleamed as you revealed a new dessert from each box, exclaiming, "These look amazing." A voice behind you expressed admiration, and you turned to see your tall friend with hungry eyes staring at the food. You gave her a pleading look, asking her to help first, causing Bada to roll her eyes and reply, "That's why I'm here, N/n." She began tying up signs while you ensured the coolers were functioning correctly.

"You made coffee cake?" Bada's gaze softened at seeing her favorite treat, and you smiled. "I know they're your favorite, so I made a bunch." She gave you a tight hug, her excitement evident. You swept the area as Bada moved around you, working efficiently to help with the setup.

"By the way, you should bring your team over later."

"Why?" Bada looked at you, her expression showing reluctance. "Girl, it's for the school fundraiser. Besides, I made so much, it'll just go to waste." Bada groaned at the thought. Her team was about to go crazy being in such close proximity to you. In a teasing tone, you told her, "I'll give you the ones you want for free." She agreed immediately, making you laugh at her swift response. After a few minutes, Bada finished putting up the signs and helped with the decoration. She then prepared to leave for a last-minute practice before their performance later that night. "I'll stop by before the dance?"

The school festival kicked off an hour after Bada left you in charge of the booth alongside other students who were helping out. The demand was soaring, and the delicious treats were flying off the shelves. Berry macaroons, red velvet cupcakes, chocolate chip cookies, and other goodies disappeared suddenly. You made sure to set aside some items that you knew Bada would love, keeping them hidden away discreetly.

Meanwhile, Team Bebe had just wrapped up their grueling practice and were gearing up for their performance. They all sported matching outfits featuring sturdy black cargo pants, baby tees with their logo, and cropped light blue bomber jackets. Bada led the girls through the crowd, the sea of students parting to make way for the renowned dance crew.

"The stage is that way, Bada," Lusher said, pointing to the left, but Bada didn't pause for a moment. "I promised to stop by somewhere and make sure I have some food left."

The younger members exchanged puzzled glances but continued to trail behind their tall, determined leader. They soon came across a sign displaying a cupcake, and the delightful aroma of sweet desserts filled their senses. "Are we getting food, unnie?" Lusher asked with a joyful clap and a jump. Bada nodded and made her way to the front of the booth, calling out, "Hey, N/n!"

Lusher's eyes widened with surprise as she spotted you holding a tray of beautifully frosted cupcakes. You wore a cute baby pink apron that exuded adorableness, and your beaming smile was a magnet for eager customers. Observing Bada trying to cut in line, you rolled your eyes, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed by Lusher.

"Is it okay for us to do this?" Lusher whispered to Bada, who responded with a sly grin. You signaled for Bada to move to the back of the booth, and the girls followed their leader. Reaching the rear, they found you holding an adorable light blue box. You opened it for Bada, revealing the delectable treats inside.

Grateful for your kindness, Bada expressed her thanks with a warm hug, and your eyes met with the crew standing behind her, creating a connection that would spark something new and exciting in the coming days.

As Bada and the rest of Team Bebe enjoyed the cupcakes you had prepared, Lusher couldn't help but be mesmerized by your beauty. Your smile was as warm as the sun, and your eyes sparkled with a charm that was hard to resist. Lusher found herself stealing glances at you whenever she thought you weren't looking, trying to hide the fluttering feeling in her chest.

She wanted to make a good impression, so she smiled and said, "Hi there! I'm Lusher. These cupcakes are amazing!" Bada took notice of her friend's boldness, leaving a cheeky smile on her face as she watched the younger blond pursue you.

Your gracious response only deepened her crush on you. "Nice to meet you, Lusher," you replied with your captivating smile. "I'm (Y/N). Thanks, I'm glad you like them."

As the festival continued, Team Bebe's performance drew nearer. Lusher and her crew enjoyed their treats, but Lusher's thoughts drifted back to you. She couldn't help but wonder about the person behind those enchanting cupcakes and that radiant smile.

Lusher felt a rush of excitement as she stood there next to you, even if it was just for a brief moment. She desperately wanted to keep the conversation going but knew that time was short with their performance approaching. As she glanced toward the stage where her crew was getting ready to head, she couldn't resist asking, "Are you going to watch our performance later?"

Your eyes lit up, and you nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! I wouldn't miss it for the world. I've heard amazing things about you guys." 

“Would you still be here by the end of the festival?” Lusher asks, hoping for anything but a no. That didn’t go her way, though, feeling down once you say, “I actually won’t be. I have work in 2 hours.” Lusher’s face grows sad as her posture droops, and you take notice, feeling bad. “Don’t worry though, I’ll make sure to leave something for you before you leave.”

With that assurance, Lusher reluctantly tore themselves away from your booth, eager to make her way to the stage. However, as they danced their hearts out in front of the school, Lusher couldn't help but steal glances in your direction, hoping to catch your eye in the crowd.

Hours passed, and as the festival drew close, Lusher returned to your booth to collect the baked goods you had promised. However, upon her arrival, she was met with dismay—a vacant space where your booth had once stood. You did say you had work, but Lusher truly hoped you could’ve possibly waited for her.

Lusher felt a pang of disappointment, but she didn't linger on it for long. She assumed her chance to see you again had slipped through her fingers. Little did she know that destiny had a different plan for her.

That night, Lusher's daily routine took an unexpected turn. She had to leave her group of friends earlier than usual due to her little brother being home with his babysitter. Her parents were working late, leaving her responsible for caring for her younger brother, Minjae, for the night. So when she enters her home, she expects her brother to run up to her with a cheesy grin like he always does. Yet, she was met with an eerie sound of nothingness. 

Her worry grew rapidly. Minjae was still supposed to be awake with his sitter, so why was there no noise? Lusher found herself cautiously stepping up the stairs, making sure she wouldn’t awaken anyone. She finds his door slightly ajar and a petite figure sitting beside her brother as they chatted away. Her eyes go to the babysitter, and she observes the clothing but pauses hard when she recognizes the cream-colored ribbon that held their hair up.

You were her brother’s babysitter? How in the world did she never realize? She wants to ask you many things but hesitates, especially after seeing your bond with her brother.

She watched in awe as you tenderly tucked Minjae into bed, his eyes shimmering with appreciation as he affectionately called you his "girlfriend" or "noona," expressing his deep admiration for you. Lusher couldn't help but beam at the touching sight as you giggled at his fantasies.

You read his favorite book as he fell asleep, ending the story to find him asleep. With a kiss on the forehead and a whisper of goodnight, you were about to exit his room but flinched when you saw Lusher standing at the door, leaning her head on the frame as her face held a sense of gratitude. Confusion brews on your face as you look back at Minjae, who looked peaceful as he slept. “Your Minjae’s noona?” You ask, and Lusher smiles, nodding. “So you’re Seoyoung?” You announce, stating it as if you were just asking yourself. “I’m just as surprised seeing you here. My parents never told me Jae’s sitter went to my school. There was literally no clue given to me,” She jokes, causing you to giggle at a hushed volume. 

“I’ll head out since you’re here now?” Lusher nods and walks you downstairs as you get your items situated. Before leaving, you perk up, remembering something as you rummaged through your bag. You pulled out a small box and opened it to show Lusher, and she stood there, bewildered. “I did promise you some treats, right? I didn’t really know what you liked, so it’s pretty basic stuff from the sale today.” You tell her, feeling a bit shy at the interaction, putting a smile on Lusher’s face. “I really do appreciate it, Y/n, thank you.”

“Of course. I’ll see you around?” Lusher’s heart flutters at the question. You? Were you hoping to see her? It was like a dream come true.

Over the following weeks, Lusher began to reorganize her entire schedule. Whenever Bada had to miss dance practice due to her projects, Lusher seized the opportunity to spend more time with her beloved brother and, naturally, to be in your company. One evening, while you were cooking a mouthwatering meal for Minjae, Lusher couldn't contain her curiosity any longer. She remarked, "You're so wonderful with Minjae," attempting to initiate a conversation.

You looked up from the stove with a hint of surprise. "Oh, thanks. He’s a good kid, so it’s a rewarding job for me."

Lusher's inquisitiveness grew, and she couldn't resist inquiring further, "Is babysitting the only thing you do? Like nothing in regards to working in a kitchen or bakery?"

You chuckled softly and explained, "I have another part-time. I also work in my mom's bakery on weekends."

Over the following six months, you and Lusher would share countless bonding moments. Whether baking cookies together, providing Minjae with homework assistance, or simply enjoying each other's company as a makeshift family, your connection deepened with each passing day. Unbeknownst to both of you, your lives were about to become more intertwined than ever imagined.

Lusher decided to visit your bakery since she had never been there after knowing you for a few months already. She was accompanied by Tatter and Kyma, her fellow dancers from Team Bebe. The three friends entered the cozy bakery, and the delightful scent of freshly baked goods enveloped them like a warm hug.

You were behind the counter, a welcoming smile gracing your face as you noticed them. "Well, hello there, Miss Seoyoung. What can I get for you today?" you asked teasingly.

Lusher couldn't help but feel excited as she exchanged playful remarks with you. She gestured to the delicious array of treats on display. "We'll take a little bit of everything, please."

You chuckled warmly. "Coming right up!" As you began to assemble a selection of delectable treats, you couldn't help but admire Lusher's lively spirit and her friends' enthusiasm. As you handed them a box filled with an assortment of your finest baked goods, Lusher couldn't contain her gratitude. "Thank you so much, (Y/N). These look amazing!"

With a playful wink, you replied, "My pleasure! Enjoy, and best of luck with your dance competition. I'll be rooting for Team Bebe!" The girls exchanged excited glances, knowing your support meant the world, especially to the sub-leader. "Actually," Lusher began, "we were wondering if you'd like to attend our competition next week. We'd love to have you there!"

You paused for a moment, genuinely touched by the invitation. "Of course. Count me in." The week passed quickly, and the day of the dance competition arrived. Team Bebe was in high spirits, fueled by your encouraging presence in the audience. As they took the stage, your face in the crowd gave Lusher an incredible boost of confidence.

After taking the stage with a breathtaking performance, the crowd applauded, and the girls took their final bow. Lusher's heart raced as she watched your eyes light up with pride. As the group gathered backstage, basking in the success of their performance, you made your way to congratulate them. Lusher could feel her heart pounding with anticipation. With an adrenaline rush, she decided it was the perfect moment to seize the opportunity.

With a trembling yet determined voice, she said, "I have something to ask you, (Y/N). I've enjoyed getting to know you so much, and I can't help but feel a strong connection between us. Would you consider being my girlfriend?"

Your eyes widened in surprise, and a radiant smile spread across your face. "I'd be absolutely thrilled, Lusher." You replied, sealing the moment with a sweet and tender kiss on her check.

The applause from the performance continued to echo in the background as you and Lusher embarked on a new chapter together, one filled with sweet surprises and the promise of a love that had blossomed amidst cupcakes and dance routines.