#taemin shinee

[sweetdreamfuel]

shinee “1 of 1” cassette tape insert

[chnsoiell]

Hermes.   ──⠀ o mensageiro dos deuses.

[wonpearl]

taemin ꒰ঌ shinee ໒꒱ lockscreen ε ♡ з

[sunwoozs]

taemin ✧ move | mbc 240717

[neptunemooon]

Backstage at SMTown & SM Family Dinner: A Night to Remember

The backstage area at the SMTown concert was a buzzing hive of activity. Performers shuffled between makeup retouches and last-minute wardrobe adjustments, while staff hurried with clipboards, headsets, and cups of coffee to keep everyone moving and the energy of the night was palpable. Ruby, dressed in her elegant rock-inspired stage outfit, adjusted her microphone pack while pacing nervously.

She was about to perform in front of thousands of fans, alongside some of the biggest names in K-pop. Despite having performed on stages like this many times before, the anticipation never stopped making her stomach flutter.

As she rounded the corner near the dressing rooms, she nearly collided with someone.

“Whoa!” came a familiar voice. “Careful there, Ruby!”

She looked up and immediately broke into a smile. “Hyung!”

It was Baekhyun from EXO, clad in a sleek black jacket adorned with intricate designs. He grinned, his signature mischievous twinkle in his eyes. “Hey, superstar,” Baekhyun said with a playful grin. “What’s with the serious face? You look like you’re about to face the Hunger Games, not perform.”

Ruby laughed nervously. “It’s not that bad, but you know how it is. The pre-show jitters get me every time.”

Baekhyun leaned against the wall, giving her a knowing look. “Come on, you? Nervous? The Ruby I know can own the stage with her eyes closed.”

“Thanks, sunbae,” Ruby replied, her nerves easing just a little. “But I don’t know how you always look so calm before performing. What’s your secret?”

“Years of pretending I’m not panicking inside,” Baekhyun deadpanned, earning a giggle from Ruby. "It has been a while since I last saw you. How have you been?"

Ruby laughed, relaxing a bit. “Busy, as always. But I could say the same for you. You’re everywhere these days!”

“Yeah, well, someone’s got to keep SM’s reputation alive,” Baekhyun winked. “And you’re not doing too bad yourself, superstar. I saw your rehearsal earlier—you’re going to kill it tonight.”

“Thanks, sunbae,” Ruby said, her cheeks warming slightly. “But coming from you, that means a lot. Your vocals are insane as always.”

Baekhyun feigned a dramatic bow. “Ah, thank you, thank you. I live for compliments.”

The two chatted like old friends, their conversation was light and fun, filled with Baekhyun’s signature humor. He teased her about how many fan banners he’d seen with her name on them and jokingly asked for royalties if she became even more famous after tonight. Ruby felt her nerves easing as Baekhyun’s humor worked its magic.

Just as she was starting to feel completely at ease, the door to a nearby dressing room opened, and out stepped Taemin.

Ruby froze, while her heart skipped a beat. Oh no, not now.

Taemin looked effortlessly cool, as always, in a glittering black outfit that shimmered under the fluorescent lights. His hair was perfectly styled, and his aura was unmistakable. He spotted Ruby immediately, and a warm smile spread across his face.

“Ruby?” Taemin said, noticing her immediately. He smiled warmly, and Ruby’s knees felt like they might give out.

Ruby’s heart did a backflip. She immediately straightened up, tugging nervously at her skirt. “H-hi, Taemin-oppa.”

Baekhyun glanced between them, his eyebrows raised, noticed the shift in Ruby’s demeanor, and raised an eyebrow, his mischievous grin creeping back.

Taemin walked over, his gaze gentle but focused. “You’re all set to go? I saw part of your rehearsal earlier—you were amazing.”

Ruby’s face turned pink. She tried to hold his gaze but ended up looking at the floor instead. “T-thank you, oppa. That means a lot coming from you.”

Baekhyun smirked, clearly enjoying the scene. “Hey, Taemin, don’t you think Ruby’s outfit today is next-level? She’s really bringing the rockstar vibes.”

Taemin nodded, his expression soft. “She always looks amazing.”

Baekhyun coughed into his hand, clearly trying to suppress a laugh. “Wow, Taemin, that’s some high praise. I mean, if I didn’t know better, I’d say Ruby’s got a special fan right here.”

Taemin shot him a look, half amused and half exasperated. “Don’t start, hyung.”

Ruby’s blush deepened, and she fumbled for an excuse to leave. “Uh, I should probably get going! I’m next to perform.”

Taemin and Baekhyun both nodded, stepping aside to let her pass.

“Good luck out there,” Taemin said, his voice full of encouragement.

“You’ll be amazing!” Baekhyun added with a playful thumbs-up.

Ruby quickly bowed and practically bolted down the hallway, her face still burning.

As soon as she disappeared down the hallway, Baekhyun turned to Taemin with a grin that could only be described as trouble.

“So…” Baekhyun began, folding his arms and leaning casually against the wall. “Care to explain what just happened there?”

Taemin frowned, pretending not to understand. “What are you talking about?”

“Oh, come on,” Baekhyun said, his grin widening. “Ruby looked like she was about to pass out just standing near you. And you—you were all soft smiles and compliments. I mean, if I didn’t know better, I’d think you two were filming a drama scene.”

Taemin sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “You’re reading too much into it.”

“Am I?” Baekhyun retorted, his tone dripping with mock innocence. “Because from where I’m standing, it looks like someone has a little crush.”

Taemin shook his head, though his faint smile betrayed him. “You’re overthinking it. Ruby’s just… Ruby. She’s talented, hardworking, and I respect her, and—”

“—completely smitten with you,” Baekhyun interrupted, grinning like the Cheshire Cat. “Talented? Hardworking? Respect? Wow, Taemin, you sound like you’re writing her college recommendation letter... Don’t play dumb, Taemin. I’ve been in this business long enough to know when something’s up. She likes you, and I’m starting to think you like her too.”

Taemin rolled his eyes, though the slight redness in his ears didn’t go unnoticed by Baekhyun.

“Okay, okay,” Baekhyun said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “Let’s say, hypothetically, you don’t have a crush on Ruby. How would you feel if someone else did?”

Taemin hesitated, and Baekhyun’s grin widened.

“That’s what I thought,” Baekhyun said, patting him on the shoulder. “Don’t worry, Taemin. Your secret’s safe with me—for now.”

Taemin sighed, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “She’s amazing. But I don’t think she sees me that way.”

Baekhyun laughed, clapping Taemin on the shoulder. “Oh, come on. Did you not see how nervous she got just standing near you? You’ve got her attention, that’s for sure.”

Taemin shook his head, though his smile grew. “You’re reading too much into it.”

“Am I?” Baekhyun said, raising an eyebrow. “Well, if you don’t make a move, someone else will. Ruby’s kind of a big deal, you know... Just saying.”

Taemin chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re impossible.”

“And you’re adorable when you’re flustered,” Baekhyun shot back, walking away with a satisfied smirk.

Taemin chuckled, though his expression turned thoughtful. “Let’s just focus on the concert for now, okay?”

“Fine, fine,” Baekhyun said, throwing his hands up in mock surrender. “But don’t think I’m letting this go. I’m officially shipping you two now.”

Taemin laughed, shaking his head as they both headed back to the dressing rooms.

Even as Ruby stepped off the stage, the adrenaline from both her performance and her earlier encounter with Taemin lingered. She barely had a moment to catch her breath before the concert wrapped up, and soon, the entire SM family was heading to an upscale restaurant to celebrate—a setting that Baekhyun saw as the perfect chance to stir up even more teasing.

The energy in the room was electric—laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses filled the air as idols from different generations reunited over a well-earned feast.

Ruby arrived with her team, still buzzing from the concert’s adrenaline. As soon as she stepped inside, she spotted aespa’s Karina waving at her from their seats.

“Ruby! Over here!” Karina called out cheerfully, making space for her.

Ruby smiled and made her way toward them, but just as she was about to sit down—

A firm yet playful grip on her wrist stopped her mid-step.

“Ah, ah, ah,” Baekhyun said with a teasing smirk, stopping her mid-step. “Nope. That seat’s taken.”

Ruby blinked in confusion. “Huh? But Karina just—”

“Yeah, yeah, but this seat,” Baekhyun said, gesturing to the empty chair next to him, ��is much better. Come on, sit here.”

Ruby hesitated. “But the girls are waiting—”

Baekhyun, being Baekhyun, ignored her protest and gently pulled her toward the seat. “They’ll survive. You can talk to them later... Besides, I saved this spot just for you.”

With no choice but to sit, Ruby sighed and took the seat—only to realize, with an immediate spike in her heart rate, that sitting to her left was none other than Taemin.

Her breath hitched.

She stiffened slightly, hands resting on her lap as her mind scrambled for an escape route. But before she could do anything, Taemin turned his head and smiled at her.

“Hey,” he greeted warmly.

Ruby swallowed hard. “H-Hi…”

Baekhyun, who had been watching way too closely, leaned back in his chair with a smirk, clearly entertained. The entire table—filled with SM sunbaes like Super Junior, EXO, Red Velvet, and NCT members—also took quiet notice, exchanging knowing looks.

Ruby tried her best to focus on anything but the fact that Taemin was sitting beside her.

“Did you enjoy performing today?” Taemin asked, tilting his head slightly.

Ruby blinked, surprised by the sudden conversation. “O-Oh! Yes, I did! It was nerve-wracking at first, but once I got on stage, it felt amazing.”

Taemin smiled. “That’s good. You looked like you were having fun.”

Her face heated at the compliment. “Ah… thank you.”

Baekhyun snickered from beside her. “Ruby, why do you look so stiff? Relax.” He nudged her arm before turning to Taemin. “Dude, I think you make her nervous.”

Taemin raised a brow, intrigued. “Do I?”

Ruby, completely mortified, immediately shook her head. “N-No! That’s not—”

Baekhyun cut her off with a smirk. “Oh, come on. We all noticed.”

Taemin raised a brow, intrigued. “Are you usually this shy, or is it just around me?”

Ruby’s brain short-circuited.

Her eyes went wide as her face turned an alarming shade of red. She barely managed to squeak out, “W-What?”

Taemin’s lips curled into a knowing smile. “I’ve noticed,” he said, resting his chin on his hand. “Every time we run into each other, you either turn red, look away, or run off. Did I do something to scare you?”

Ruby practically wanted the ground to swallow her whole.

“N-No! It’s not that!” she blurted out, waving her hands frantically. “It’s just that… I…”

She hesitated, squeezing the fabric of her skirt.

Taemin tilted his head slightly, waiting patiently.

Minho, who had been listening in, grinned. “It’s true. You should’ve seen her backstage. The second she spotted Taemin, she made the quickest exit I’ve ever seen.”

Heechul cackled from across the table. “A classic case of celebrity crush syndrome!”

The entire table erupted into laughter, and Ruby wanted to die.

Taemin, on the other hand, just watched her reaction with a soft smile. “So it is true?”

Ruby squeezed her eyes shut before mumbling, “Maybe…”

The teasing only intensified.

Baekhyun clapped his hands together. “Ruby has a crush on Taemin!”

“Hyung!” she hissed, hitting his arm.

Minho smirked. “No wonder she always avoids eye contact with him.”

“Hold on,” Heechul interjected dramatically. “Ruby, do you get nervous because you like him? Or is it because you think he’s intimidating?”

Ruby groaned, covering her face. “Please stop…”

Taemin chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. “She’s not answering. That means we’re onto something.”

Baekhyun grinned. “Oh, we’re definitely onto something.”

Ruby sighed, knowing there was no way out of this, and reluctantly admitted, “I just get… really shy around you.”

But then, to Ruby’s complete horror, he gave her the softest, most heart-melting smile she had ever seen.

“That’s adorable,” he said simply.

Dead. She was dead.

Ruby’s face turned a shade of red she didn’t even know was possible.

Baekhyun burst out laughing. “Oh my God, Taemin. You’re killing her.”

Minho whistled. “That was smooth.”

Heechul wiped fake tears from his eyes. “What a heart-fluttering moment. Someone write this into a K-drama script.”

Ruby stared at Taemin in complete disbelief, feeling like she had just been struck by lightning. Did he just—?

Before she could even process her emotions, Taemin just chuckled, clearly amused, and leaned in slightly. “You don’t have to be nervous around me, you know.”

Ruby peeked at him through her fingers. “That’s easy for you to say…”

Taemin hummed in thought before leaning in slightly. “How about we fix that?”

Ruby blinked. “Huh?”

“I’d like to get to know you better,” he said casually. “Outside of work. Just as friends… or something more casual. What do you think?”

The table fell silent.

Ruby’s brain completely shut down. Did Taemin just ask to spend time with her… outside of work?!

Baekhyun immediately leaned forward. “OH? OH?”

Minho smirked. “Did we just witness something big?”

Heechul dramatically gasped. “Is this the birth of SM’s newest power couple?”

Ruby, absolutely overwhelmed, fidgeted with the hem of her skirt before nodding shyly. “O-Okay…”

Taemin’s smile widened. “Great.”

At that moment, a few of the SM members—most notably Baekhyun, Minho, and Heechul—exchanged smug glances.

Baekhyun leaned toward Minho and whispered, “Did we just witness the start of something legendary?”

Minho smirked. “Oh, absolutely.”

Heechul cleared his throat dramatically. “So… do we start planning the wedding now, or—”

Ruby groaned while Taemin chuckled, clearly entertained.

As the dinner continued, Ruby found herself slowly relaxing. Despite her initial nervousness, Taemin’s warmth made her feel comfortable. As the night went on, she caught herself stealing glances at him—only to find that he was already looking at her too.

Baekhyun nudged Minho and whispered, “If they end up together, I’m taking credit.”

Minho smirked. “We all are.”

And as the SM family continued their teasing, Ruby and Taemin simply exchanged shy smiles—unspoken words passing between them.

Maybe this was just the beginning.

And maybe, just maybe, Ruby didn’t mind at all.

Hello, everyone! How are you all doing?

I hope you all enjoy this one-shot. I decided to make this week's one-shot in honor of Taemin since I got the chance to see him in Houston this week. It was amazing; I literally have no words to explain it. It was perfect; I completely recommend seeing him if you get the chance. And, as I promised, here are some pictures from the concert. Until next time, see you all soon!

My works are not allowed for translation or reposting as your own without my permission.

[versegallery]

☆ ⌇ shinee icons

⌗ like ou reblogue se usar | créditos não são obrigatórios | psd por @colour-source

[mminmgi]

𒂭۪۪۪۪᳝۟ ........ so we bitch about his fans

[bgarchivee]

taemin (shinee/soloist)

[mykoreanlove]

A whisper in the dark 😈

<<< previous chapter

The night air was thick, wrapping around you like a suffocating veil as you stormed down the dimly lit streets. Your heart pounded heavily —not from exertion, but from the frustration clawing at your ribs, desperate to be let out.

"I won’t kill you."

Taemin’s words wouldn’t leave your head.

"Forget it. I’m not turning you."

You wiped at your eyes furiously, barely registering the cold against your skin. The night stretched endlessly before you, the streets deserted except for the occasional flicker of a neon sign.

It wasn’t fair.

Why did Taemin get to decide how this ended? Why did he get to live forever while you counted down the years, waiting for the moment you’d be too old, too broken, too human for him?

Your chest ached, a deep, unbearable pressure that no amount of pacing could fix. You wanted to scream. To tear at your own skin. To be someone else—someone who didn’t have an expiration date.

You were so lost in your thoughts that you didn’t see him at first. Didn’t notice the way he leaned against the flickering streetlamp, arms crossed, smirk perfectly in place. Didn’t realize you were being watched.

“You look lost, princess.”

The voice was smooth—like a whispered secret, a blade dipped in honey.

You froze. Something in your body responded before your brain could catch up, your breath hitching, skin prickling with unease. Your gaze snapped to the figure by the lamp.

He was tall—his lean frame draped in something dark and unapologetically expensive. Midnight hair fell carelessly over piercing eyes, his entire presence humming with a slow, lethal confidence.

His smirk widened when he saw you staring. Like he knew something you didn’t. The hairs on the back of your neck stood up. You weren’t stupid. This wasn’t just some random guy. There was something dangerous about him. Something that set off alarms in the back of your mind, telling you to run.

But you didn’t. You squared your tense shoulders, forcing your voice to stay steady. “I’m not lost.”

A chuckle. Low. Amused. Like he didn’t believe you. “I suppose not.” He tilted his head, eyes raking over you like he was reading every thought you’d ever had. A beat of silence passed between you, thick with something unspoken.

Then—

“You know exactly where you’re going, don’t you?”

Your stomach twisted. There was something about his voice—something unsettlingly familiar. Then it hit you. Your heart halted. “You’re… like him.”

The moment the words left your lips, his smirk deepened. “Like Taemin?” His voice was silk and shadow. “Yes. But no.”

He pushed off the lamp post, his movements too smooth, too controlled. “Taemin fears what he is.” He took a slow step forward. “I don’t.”

Something inside you shifted. There it was again—that coil of unease tightening in your chest. You took a step back, your voice barely above a whisper. “Who are you?”

A slow smile. A quick step forward. He took your fragile hand into his, not forceful, yet determined, placing an ice-cold kiss on top of your hand.

“Kai.”

The name slithered down your spine, wrapping around your ribs like a vice.

Kai.

Even the name felt sharp. He studied your reaction, the amusement in his gaze shifting into something sharper, more calculated. “You’re hurting.” His voice softened, the smugness melting into something dangerously close to understanding. “Taemin won’t turn you, is that it?”

You flinched, revoking your hand, your fingers clenching into fists. He let out a soft hum, tilting his head. “It’s exhausting, isn’t it? The waiting. The hoping. The endless feeling of being—” He paused, watching you carefully. “Disposable.”

Your breath caught. “I’m not—”

Kai tsked, stepping closer. You should have stepped back. You should have left. But his presence held you there, locked in place. “You think he’s protecting you, don’t you?” His voice was softer now, coaxing. Like he was offering something. Your throat tightened.

“He is.” But your voice wasn’t as steady as you wanted it to be. Kai smiled. Like he’d been expecting that answer. “Or maybe…” He leaned in, his breath cool against your skin. “He’s controlling you.”

Your stomach dropped. “No—”

“Oh, come on.” His chuckle was like smoke curling around your ribs, thick and suffocating. “You can’t tell me you haven’t thought it.” Your pulse pounded. Kai circled you slowly, like a predator playing with its food.

“He loves you, doesn’t he?” He arched a brow. “So why won’t he give you what you want?” Your mouth opened. Then closed. Kai’s smirk widened. “Because it’s not about you. It’s about him.”

He stepped closer.

“He’s been alive for how long now? A hundred years? Two? You think you’re the first person he’s ever loved?”

Your chest tightened. You hated how his words dug into your insecurities, the ones you tried so hard to bury. Kai sighed dramatically, shaking his head. “If he truly wanted you, he wouldn’t hesitate.” His gaze darkened, voice dipping lower. “I wouldn’t hesitate, princess.”

The air crackled, electric and dangerous. Your fingers curled into fists. “Why are you telling me this?” Kai smirked. Like he’d been waiting for this question. “Because,” he murmured, eyes gleaming, “if he won’t turn you… I will.”

Your heart stopped. The world tilted. The weight of his offer slammed into your chest. You swallowed, hard. Your mind screamed no, but your body… your heart… hesitated. Kai saw it. He could smell it in the air—your doubt, your longing, your desperation.

And he thrived on it. He extended a hand, his voice smooth and inviting. “Let me give you what he won’t.”

Your breath came out shaky. You knew this was wrong. You knew you shouldn’t even be entertaining the thought. But as you stared at Kai’s outstretched hand, you couldn’t ignore the hunger in your chest—the need to finally have a choice.

You reached out. But just before your fingers brushed his—

A voice sliced through the night like a blade. “Get away from her.” Your heart leapt. You spun around—

And there he was.

Taemin.

>>> Next chapter

[ewexyz]

[talkingsaxy2]

SHINEE TAEMIN LOCKS

please don't repost, okay for personal use, requests open!

[leejenoenthusiast]

What we’re not gonna do is forget that this absolutely mouthwatering performance exists

(Baekhyun being told to sit up gets me every time)

[queer-lovebot]

what do we think about kevin day with makeup? with skirts and dresses? how do foxes react? how do andrew, neil, and jean react? HOw will jeremy react!?

AH! Kevin should always be dressed pretty forever! A sundress or a little skirt. Some sensible heels. Mary Janes. Mesh top. A gentle smoky eye. Sorry I’m getting crazy. I think Kevin dresses rather modestly and that’s part of the charm. As long as he has the illusion of being covered he’s Okay

I think the Foxes are annoying about it in the way they are, but they aren’t judgemental! In fact I think Nicky is going to use this as an excuse to treat Kevin as a dress up doll. I think it’ll make the “princess” comments worse for SURE, but that’s a necessary sacrifice for a Kevin that’s so dressy. Allison is probably the first person to help Kevin navigate his femininity and figure out what looks good on him. Bc of this Kevin is legally unallowed to be mean to her.

Andrew and Jean suffer the worst of everyone. Kevin comes out wearing some nice heels looking for advice and Andrew and Jean share the worst look known to man. Which then makes them disgusted at each other. Same look of horny Intrigue.

Jeremy and Neil? I think they react similarly except Jeremy with more excitement? Neil is like “I don’t get it” until he gets the pleasure of destroying a really cute skirt in a fight and well. The rest is history. He also enjoys how flustered Kevin gets when wearing something pretty.

Jeremy is like “woah kevin is usually so hot and string and now he’s hot and delicate but STILL strong??” He probably wants to put Kevin in lipstick just to have it smeared all over his own face. Jeremy is very appreciative and will also want to dress Kevin up when they see each other. Private fashion show if you will.

[stygabbs]

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀𝗅𝗈(𝒗)𝖾⠀⠀─⠀⠀𝐦𝐞⠀⠀’⠀ 𝖺𝗀𝖺𝗂𝗇

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⸻ 어두운ㅤㅤ＇🎞️

[handuski]

⠀⠀ ▊▍ ⠀ ⠀ 𒈔 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ ⠀ 𓈒 𓈒 ⠀ ⠀ ⠀.·:*¨¨*:·. ⠀ ⠀

⠈⢎⢦⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⣟⡇⣿⠀⠀⣸⠟⠿⣧⣄⣀⣠⣤⠀⠈⣭⡄⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠣⡀⠀⠀⠀⠀⢀⡜⠀

[neptunemooon]

The Day Stars Collided

It was a rainy Thursday in Seoul when Ruby’s life changed in a way she didn’t see coming.

She was still new at SM Entertainment — a fresh face, barely out of trainee status, clutching her demo CD like it was a lifeline. Her hair was frizzing from the humidity, and she had accidentally spilled coffee down her sweatshirt earlier that morning. To top it off, she had just finished a grueling two-hour vocal practice where the instructor politely said she sounded like she was "overthinking every note."

In other words, Ruby was thriving.

She darted down the polished hallways of SM’s main building, trying to find the right practice room she’d been assigned for the afternoon. Every room looked identical: sleek, modern, and intimidating. Her sneakers squeaked awkwardly against the floors.

"Room 7B," she muttered under her breath, peeking at a slip of paper in her hand. "Where is 7B—?"

Wham.

She slammed directly into a solid wall.

Except it wasn’t a wall. It was a person.

A very solid, very startled person.

Ruby stumbled back, flailing wildly, and would have landed flat on her back if strong hands hadn't caught her by the arms.

"Whoa, whoa—easy there!" a warm voice said, half laughing.

Ruby blinked up at her accidental savior — and immediately wished the floor would swallow her whole.

Because standing there, grinning like she hadn’t just bulldozed into him, was Kim Jonghyun.

Yes. That Kim Jonghyun. The vocal legend. The heart and soul of SHINee. The artist Ruby had admired for years.

She was so starstruck she forgot how to breathe.

"I—uh—oh my god—I’m so sorry—I didn’t see—!" she blurted out in one breathless, horrifyingly high-pitched ramble.

Jonghyun just chuckled, brushing invisible dust off her shoulders like he hadn’t almost been tackled.

"It’s okay," he said easily. "I’m used to getting knocked over by fans. Usually not in the hallway, though. First time for everything."

Ruby turned even redder.

"I’m not— I mean— I am a fan! But I wasn’t trying to—!" She flailed helplessly, words crashing over each other like waves.

He laughed even harder, this time clapping a hand to his chest like she was the funniest thing he’d seen all week.

"You’re adorable," he said finally, grinning down at her. "What’s your name?"

Ruby froze. She had to actually speak words?

"R-Ruby," she squeaked. "I’m… a trainee. I mean, kind of. I just… I just got signed."

His eyes brightened. "Ohhh, new blood! Welcome to the madhouse."

She let out a nervous laugh, unsure if she should bow again or stand still or just spontaneously combust.

"Where you headed, Ruby?" Jonghyun asked, glancing at the slip of paper in her hand.

"Uh, 7B? I have a vocal check."

"Perfect!" He beamed. "That’s two doors down. I’ll walk you."

She stared at him, completely short-circuited. Kim Jonghyun is escorting me to practice. What is happening.

As they walked, Jonghyun made easy conversation — asking where she was from, what kind of music she liked, if she had a stage name picked out. Ruby answered as best she could without combusting into a puddle of nerves.

"The good ol’ trainee days," he said, his tone teasing but gentle. "How’s that going?"

She hesitated. He seemed genuinely interested.

"Honestly?" she muttered, staring at her shoes. "It sucks."

There was a beat of silence, and then—

"Yeah," Jonghyun said, nodding thoughtfully. "It does."

Ruby looked up, startled. He wasn’t joking. He looked… sincere.

"I almost quit three times during my trainee period," he admitted, casually like he was talking about the weather. "It’s brutal. People don’t talk about that part enough."

Ruby blinked. "You? Quit? But… you’re… you."

He grinned. "I was still me back then too. And I still wanted to throw in the towel sometimes. You’re not alone, you know."

Something in her chest loosened. She hadn’t realized how much she needed to hear that.

"I just…" she sighed, letting herself stop walking. "I don’t know if I’m cut out for this. Everyone else seems to know what they’re doing, and I’m just… faking it."

Jonghyun chuckled, stopped walking, and looked straight into her eyes. "Newsflash: We’re all faking it."

She blinked down at him. "Even now?"

He looked up at her with a mischievous glint. "Especially now."

Ruby found herself giggling, the weight on her chest easing.

They stood there on the hallway floor for the next hour like two kids ditching class. Jonghyun asked her about her hometown, her favorite music, and why she wanted to be an idol. She found herself rambling about her dad’s rock band, her mom’s fashion designs, and how she dreamed of blending rock and K-pop in her own music.

Jonghyun listened carefully, nodding, humming in agreement.

“Sounds like you have the right heart for this,” he said after a pause. "Heart matters more than technique. You can teach skills. You can't fake soul."

His words struck something deep inside her. She clutched them close, like a secret gift.

"You’re braver than I was," Jonghyun said, impressed. "I was too scared to be anything but what they told me to be for the first few years."

"Really?" Ruby asked, wide-eyed.

He nodded. "Took me a while to figure out that people connect to honesty more than perfection. You seem like you already get that."

She smiled shyly. "I don’t know. I’m still figuring it out."

"Good," Jonghyun said, nudging her shoulder. "Keep figuring it out. Don’t rush to have all the answers."

There was a comfortable silence for a moment.

"You know," he said thoughtfully, "I can tell you’re serious about music."

She blinked. "How?"

"You’re carrying your lyric notebook like it’s your diary," he teased, pointing to the notebook still clutched tightly in her hands. "That’s how you know someone’s heart is in it."

Ruby smiled shyly. No one had ever noticed that before.

They reached Room 7B, and Ruby lingered awkwardly in the doorway, not wanting the moment to end.

Jonghyun, sensing it, grinned.

"Tell you what," he said, leaning casually against the doorframe. "You survive your vocal check, and afterward, I’ll buy you a coffee. Celebration for surviving your first SM building collision."

Ruby’s mouth dropped open. "Really?!"

"Of course!" he said cheerfully. "Besides, I owe you. I think you dislocated my pride when you ran me over."

She giggled, feeling the last of her nerves melt away.

"Deal," she said, holding out her pinky without thinking.

Jonghyun’s smile softened — the kind of smile that could melt glaciers — and he linked his pinky with hers like it was the most natural thing in the world.

"Pinky swear," he said solemnly.

With that, he gave her a little two-finger salute and sauntered down the hallway, whistling a tune Ruby didn’t recognize but instantly loved.

Later, true to his word, Jonghyun showed up after her vocal check with two coffees in hand.

They sat on a bench outside the building, sipping quietly as the rain continued to drizzle around them. The city lights blurred in the puddles at their feet.

"Hey, Ruby?" Jonghyun said after a while.

"Yeah?"

"You’re gonna be something special," he said, voice soft and sure.

Ruby blinked hard, trying not to tear up.

"And if you ever need anything," he added with a wink, "a song, advice, someone to knock over again — I’m around."

She laughed, the sound bubbling up naturally this time.

"I'm going to give you some trainee advice, rule number one of trainee life," he said, holding up an imaginary pack of ramyeon like it was a sacred artifact. "Always have emergency noodles."

She giggled, nodding seriously. "Got it, sunbaenim."

He wrinkled his nose. "Don’t call me that. Makes me feel old."

"But you are older," she teased before she could stop herself.

His jaw dropped dramatically. "EXCUSE ME?!"

She clapped a hand over her mouth, mortified—then realized he was laughing.

"Oh, you’re sassy," he said, waggling a finger at her. "I like you. You’ll survive just fine."

He glanced at her with a warm smile. “You know, Ruby, you don’t have to keep calling me Jonghyun sunbae. It’s way too formal.”

Ruby blinked, startled. “Huh? But… you are my sunbae.”

Jonghyun chuckled, shaking his head. “I mean, yeah, but we’re friends now, right? You can just call me oppa.”

The moment he said it, he noticed her expression shift—just barely—but enough. She hesitated, eyebrows twitching slightly, lips pressing into a tight line as if she was holding something in. It wasn’t dislike, not exactly. It was more like… embarrassment?

Jonghyun tilted his head. “What? Did I say something weird?”

Ruby looked down at her hands. “It’s not you,” she said softly. “It’s just… I’ve never really called anyone oppa before.”

He blinked. “Really? Not even your brothers?”

She laughed, a little awkwardly. “Especially not them. Christopher always said it was cringy. Liam and Leo used to tease me if I ever tried, like dramatically holding their chests and fake crying. So I gave up. It became this… weird line I never crossed.”

Jonghyun’s smile softened, touched by the honesty. “Ahh… makes sense. Families have their own rules.”

“Yeah,” she nodded, cheeks a little flushed. “So it’s not like I don’t want to. I just—never really have. Feels… foreign.”

There was a beat of silence before Jonghyun leaned back, grinning. “Well, now I feel kind of honored. Should I be the first?”

Ruby groaned dramatically, hiding her face behind her coffee. “Don’t make it weird!”

He laughed, that bright, melodic laugh of his that could make anyone feel at ease. “Okay, okay! No pressure. Call me whatever you want, Ruby-yah. Just… not sunbae-nim like we’re at a corporate meeting.”

She giggled. “Deal.”

They sat together in companionable silence for a while, the kind only true friends could enjoy. Then, just as Jonghyun stood up to stretch, Ruby’s quiet voice floated up.

“…Oppa.”

He froze mid-stretch, glancing back at her. “Huh?”

She looked away, flustered but smiling. “I said it. Just this once.”

His expression melted into the softest smile, eyes crinkling with warmth. He walked back over and gently ruffled her hair.

“You said it perfectly,” he whispered. “Thanks, Ruby.”

And in that small, simple moment, a quiet bond between them grew even stronger.

From that day on, Jonghyun became her safe place in a world that often felt too big, too loud, too overwhelming. He’d pop into her practice room unannounced, drop a banana milk on her desk, text her memes at midnight, or send her random voice notes like, "Hey, I wrote this melody today, what do you think?"

He never treated her like a burden. Never made her feel like a kid tagging along. He listened when she vented, teased her when she needed to laugh, and offered advice only when she asked.

And Ruby? She started to feel like she wasn’t so alone.

She felt like she belonged.

She never forgot that rainy Thursday — the day she accidentally collided with one of the brightest stars in the sky, and somehow, miraculously, he decided to walk with her for a while.

And maybe… just maybe… she had a big brother in the making.

March 2017 – SM Entertainment Building

Ruby's hands trembled slightly as she stared down at the glowing text message on her phone.

Congratulations! We’re excited to officially begin preparations for your DEBUT in early 2018! Please attend the team meeting tomorrow at 2 PM to discuss details!

For a few seconds, the world blurred around her. Debut. The word echoed in her mind, carrying years of blood, sweat, and invisible sacrifices.

She clutched the phone to her chest, heart pounding like a drum.

There was only one person she wanted to tell first.

Without even thinking, Ruby sprinted down the hall, weaving through staff members and other trainees, almost tripping twice. She skidded to a halt in front of a familiar door labeled "Recording Studio B."

Light leaked from under the door. Music vibrated faintly through the crack.

Ruby knocked excitedly.

A second later, the door swung open — and there was Jonghyun, dressed in an oversized hoodie, headphones slung around his neck, eyebrows lifting in surprise.

“Whoa, slow down, kiddo,” he laughed, catching her by the shoulders before she could crash into him. “What’s gotten into you?”

“I—I—” Ruby panted, trying to catch her breath, her whole face lighting up with pure, unfiltered joy. “I’m debuting, Oppa!! They just told me! Next year!!”

Jonghyun blinked — then broke into the biggest, brightest grin she’d ever seen.

“YES!!!” He whooped, lifting her slightly off the ground in a spontaneous hug. "I knew it! I told you, Ruby, you're a star!"

She laughed, clinging to him, overwhelmed with happiness.

He set her down gently, eyes sparkling. “I’m so proud of you. Seriously.”

Ruby wiped at the happy tears threatening to spill over. “Thank you, Oppa… I really couldn’t have survived this trainee year without you.”

Jonghyun tapped her forehead playfully. “You did the hard work. I just made sure you didn’t combust from stress.”

They both laughed.

“Now go!” he said, pretending to shoo her away. “Get some rest, celebrate, whatever you need. You have a big meeting tomorrow — you gotta show them your A-game!”

Ruby nodded enthusiastically. Nothing could ruin this feeling.

Or so she thought.

The Next Day — SM Meeting Room

Ruby sat in a plush leather chair, notebook balanced on her lap, nerves coiling tightly in her stomach.

Around the glossy conference table sat members of the A&R team, styling coordinators, PR reps — and to her surprise — Jonghyun, too, sipping coffee calmly at the far end. He caught her eye and winked, giving her a small thumbs-up under the table.

She smiled, comforted.

The head A&R rep clicked to the first slide of a PowerPoint.

“As Ruby’s image is youthful and fresh, we propose a cute, bubbly debut concept — bright colors, school uniform outfits, simple choreography. Very safe. Very marketable.”

On cue, a sugary demo track started playing — all bright synths and repetitive cheerleader chants.

Ruby sat frozen.

It wasn’t… bad, exactly.

But it wasn't her.

Not even a little bit.

As the room filled with polite nods and murmurs of approval, Ruby felt something heavy sink into her chest.

Across the table, Jonghyun was watching her closely.

Really watching.

He noticed the tiny way her shoulders stiffened. How she didn't bob her head along to the music. How her smile slipped into something polite and empty.

He knew.

Later That Afternoon — Studio B

“Oppa?” Ruby poked her head into Jonghyun’s studio after he texted her to come by.

He waved her in, closing the door behind her.

They sat down — him on the swivel chair, her perched cross-legged on the couch, nervously picking at the seam of her sleeve.

“Alright, spill it,” Jonghyun said, voice warm but firm. “What’s wrong?”

Ruby hesitated.

Then — in a small voice — she told him everything.

How grateful she was for the chance to debut. How hard she'd worked to get here. But also… how wrong the concept felt. How she dreamed of performing songs that were intense, emotional, even a little dark — not bubblegum pop.

Jonghyun listened quietly, nodding, letting her get it all out.

When she finally finished, wiping her eyes with her sleeve, he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees.

"Ruby," he said gently. "You deserve to debut as yourself. Not a version of you that fits some easy mold."

She sniffled. "But I’m just a rookie. They’ll think I’m ungrateful. What if they think I’m difficult?”

Jonghyun smiled crookedly.

"Trust me, it's better to be 'difficult' and stay true to yourself than to wake up one day and realize you hate what you’ve built."

He paused, thinking.

"You have a vision. That's rare. Most rookies don't know what they want yet. You do. That’s your strength."

Ruby stared at him, overwhelmed with gratitude.

"Okay," he clapped his hands once, energizing the air. "Enough moping. Let’s show them what you’re made of."

"H-How?"

He grinned mischievously. “We make them an offer they can’t refuse."

That Night — Jonghyun’s Studio

They brainstormed for hours — bouncing ideas, sketching notes, laughing over terrible concepts ("Ruby… what about an alien princess who yodels?" "Oppa, no!!").

Bit by bit, a shape formed.

Ruby confessed how she loved slightly haunting melodies, stories about dreams and nightmares, gothic fairytales.

Jonghyun's eyes lit up.

“Sounds like a dream-chasing concept," he mused. “Something intense but beautiful. Dark but hopeful."

Together, they started writing a song — something fast, fierce, addictive.

"Chase Me."

Jonghyun laid down a rough beat, Ruby layered scratch vocals, and little by little, the track bloomed in the dim-lit room.

It wasn’t polished yet — but it had soul.

It had her.

Around 3 AM, yawning but exhilarated, they built a quick PowerPoint pitch — complete with photos of darker styling, elegant choreography ideas, and lyrics centered on dream-chasing and mystery.

Before they left, Jonghyun tossed a casual arm around Ruby’s shoulders.

“No matter what happens tomorrow,” he said, voice low and certain, “I’m proud of you for fighting for yourself."

Ruby smiled, leaning into him, feeling stronger than she had in days.

The Next Day — SM Meeting Room Again

When Ruby and Jonghyun wheeled in a laptop and clicked to their presentation, the staff initially looked skeptical. After all, they were expecting more of the "safe and cute" route for a rookie.

But as the eerie opening notes of their new demo track filled the room, and Ruby spoke — voice steady, eyes shining — something shifted.

"Our concept," Ruby said, clicking through moodboards filled with mysterious forests, gothic architecture, and intense choreography shots, "is about dreams — but not the sweet, pastel ones. It’s about chasing the unknown, confronting your fears, and finding strength in your darkness."

Heads started nodding slowly.

"We want something intense but beautiful. Dark, but hopeful," Jonghyun added, giving Ruby an encouraging glance.

Ruby clicked to the next slide: performance outfits — tailored jackets, dramatic flowing skirts, harness accessories — all elegant and striking.

"I also wanted to suggest," Ruby continued carefully, heart hammering in her chest, "that it might be better to debut this concept in the fall — maybe October. The darker, more dramatic tone would suit the cooler season, when people are drawn to moodier music and aesthetics."

There was a pause.

The team exchanged thoughtful glances.

It made sense.

Ruby pushed through the nerves and added, "I think it would create a stronger impact. A dark, emotional debut in autumn could make us stand out — and it would match the feeling of the song and concept perfectly."

The room buzzed with quiet excitement now — a stark difference from the cautious atmosphere of the day before.

After a brief huddle among the executives, the head A&R rep smiled.

“Let’s do it," he said. "Dark concept. Fall debut. October.”

Ruby almost burst into tears of relief.

Beside her, Jonghyun beamed, mouthing, Told you so.

Later — Hallway Outside

Ruby hugged Jonghyun fiercely, almost knocking the breath out of him.

"Thank you, Oppa," she whispered. "Thank you for believing in me when I didn't even know if I could."

He ruffled her hair, grinning. "That’s what family’s for."

She pulled back and looked up at him, eyes shining.

“I’m going to make you proud,” she promised.

"You already have," Jonghyun said quietly.

And with that, Ruby stepped into her future — no longer just a lost trainee.

But an artist.

A dream-chaser.

Just like the sunbae who had taught her to never settle for less than her true voice.

I wrote this especially for @angel-02. I hope you like it! You truly inspired me to write this, and I’m grateful for your presence.

Fun fact: Jonghyun is one of the very few people Ruby refers to as 'oppa.'

My works are not allowed for translation or reposting as your own without my permission.