Takumi could not sleep that night. His bewildered mind swirled with thoughts of the happenings of the previous few days. Everything thus far has felt surreal: his breakup with Min-Jun, Mr. Kang approaching him, his success at the dancing competition, and the audition tomorrow. His head was filled with fresh experiences, both joyous and painful. When the first rays of sunlight penetrated the wide window, he stood up and started his morning routine. He took a bath and dressed in clothes that highlighted his long, lean legs and strong body. He groomed his hair to seem as handsome as possible and wore his favourite accessories to complete the look.
Hoon awoke early to lend his assistance and advice.
"How do you feel? Did you get any sleep?" was his close friend's first query.
"Not really. I was extremely uneasy. I kept reflecting on yesterday's dance competition and today's audition. I am both thrilled and nervous, does that make sense?"
"Of course it does. You should give your all today at the audition; don't give them a cause to reject you based on your performance. Also, don't assume that they'll accept you, even if you do well. The issue of not having parental consent is a significant throwback. We'll see what happens following the audition. Remember, my parents have pledged to help you until you are an adult, so don't be afraid!"
"Thanks, hyung".
"Now go, you don't want to be late".
To ensure he arrived at the agency on time, the car engine started an hour earlier than scheduled.
The air buzzed with tense tension in the big auditorium as Takumi bowed deeply to the six judges seated behind the long table. Three pairs of eyes sparkled with recognition: Mr. Choi, Mr. Park, and Mr. Kim, three of the company's top stockholders and executives. They were joined by renowned choreographer Ms. Jung, popular vocal coach Mr. Kang, and genius producer Edemy.
The three executives had watched him dance at the K-Pop Dance Competition and were wowed by his flawless technique and brilliant performing style.
"Takumi-kun, welcome back," Mr. Choi said with warm voice. "We're glad to see you again."
Takumi straightened his body. He had a frightened look in his usually confident brown eyes. "Thank you so much, Choi-ssi. I am glad to be here."
"Let's get started then, shall we?" Ms. Jung, a woman with perfectly acute eyes, clapped her hands. "Show us what you have been working on. Dance first".
Takumi took a deep breath and went onto the indicated centre square. The music pulsed - a popular K-pop track. His body moved instantly with fluidity and strength, spinning, leaping, and gliding. Everyone seemed impressed, with a slight smile on their lips. Takumi kept the final position as the last note faded, his chest heaving but his eyes beaming with pride.
"Very good, Takumi-kun," Ms. Jung said with a touch of admiration in her tone. "Next, let's hear you sing."
Takumi took a microphone and brushed his fingers on the chilly metal of the microphone. He closed his eyes for a moment to relieve his nerves. When he opened them again, his eyes met In-Su's. There was a wordless encouragement in them. The opening chords of a soulful ballad flooded the room, and Takumi's voice rose. It was raw and full of adolescent yearning, which matched the song's topic. The final note hung in the air, creating a comforting quiet.
"A pleasant surprise," Mr. Kang finally said, his voice low but not harsh. "Your voice is beautiful and it's apparent that you've been taking vocal lessons."
Takumi gave a cautious smile. "Thank you, Mr. Kang. I've been practicing a lot."
"Obviously" said In-Su. "Now, you mentioned you play instruments?"
Takumi smiled wider. "Yes! I play the piano and guitar."
In-Su pointed to a spot where a keyboard and an acoustic guitar stood. "Why don't you play us something on the piano?"
Takumi approached the piano. He chose a composition that although he hadn't written himself, the melody symbolised his feelings at that moment. The music streamed from him, creating a sense of dedication and intensity. When the final chord faded, the room returned to a comfortable silence.
The judges conferred among themselves for a few tense moments. Finally, Ms. Jung spoke. "Takumi-kun, your talent is apparent. You possess the ability, dedication, and stage presence. The difficulty is that you are underage and lack parental consent. If you're discovered and your parents sue us, we'll be in big problems legally."
"There is nothing I can do about parental consent. I don't communicate with my family, and they won't sign if I ask. If you believe I am worth the danger, I promise to do whatever it takes to remain hidden while training. Otherwise, I fully understand your rejection choice."
"Will you try again with our company if you get rejected today?" In-Su said, his tone light and mischievous.
"Of course. However, you must realise something. Right now, I am staying at a friend's place. I have no home or money. If, following yesterday's performance, another agency, no matter how small, contacts me, I will accept. Whether I choose to audition again at your organisation will be determined by how they treat me. Even if I am not called by another agency, I have no idea what will happen next, so everything is up in the air right now."
"I appreciate your response. We'll get in touch soon to inform you of our decision." Mr. Park spoke for the first time.
Takumi bowed deeply, his heart pumping rapidly. He wasn't sure if he'd overcome his nerves, but he had certainly given it his all. As he stepped out of the audition room, a glimmer of optimism appeared within him. He might yet have a chance at becoming a K-pop idol.
Add comment
Comments