Altos and Treblemakers (Kyungsoo/Junmyeon)
Side Pairings: slight KaiBaek
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: cursing, sexual innuendos
Word Count: 7.1k
Summary: Kyungsoo wants to live his college life on the down low: no scandals, no arrests, and definitely no relationships; that is until a certain bubbly student takes him into the world of treble, and college becomes a bit more interesting.
A/N: This is the story I wrote for the Reflection0112 fic fest way back when (even though it's only been almost two months). I'm so grateful for the mods of the fest for their hard work and for pulling me into the world of sudi fics...
“Um, hello?” Kyungsoo spoke to the radio station manager.
Not paying attention to the college freshman, Kyungsoo stepped closer to the booth holding the manager, “Excuse me,” he knocked on the glass window.
The noise startled said male, and he jumped in his seat, “Who are you? Freshmen aren’t allowed in the booth.”
“I’m the new intern.”
“I’m Minseok the station manager. You must be Kwangsoo.”
“It’s actually--”
Another boy ran into the room with a preppy outfit and a half loosened tie, “Hi, I’m Junmyeon.”
“Oh look who decided to show up. You’re late,” Minseok sarcastically remarked.
Junmyeon turned to look at Kyungsoo as a glint of recognition shined in his eyes, “Hey, you’re the guy from orientation!”
“I-I’m sorry? You might’ve got the wrong guy,” Kyungsoo denied him even though he knew exactly what he was talking about.
“No, no I’m pretty sure I saw you there. How can I forget the guy I sang to while we were waiting for everything to start?”
“I don’t know you.”
“Yeah, you do.”
“I don’t.”
“Hi, I’m Junmyeon. Now you do.”
“Whether you know each other or not, you’ll be getting real close from working here,” Minseok interrupted their bickering with a look of annoyance, “Let’s start off with my favorite ice breaker: stacking CDs.”
Minseok dropped a large pile of CDs into each of their hands, before heading towards the door, “And just...no sex in the station, alright. I’ve already had to deal with the consequences before.”
The door slammed shut as Minseok left the station to God knows where. Hopefully it wasn’t what Kyungsoo was thinking. He’s had to deal with enough strange bosses in his working career.
Placing a USB drive onto the desktop of the booth, Kyungsoo thought his action went unnoticed until Junmyeon spotted him, “Hey what’s that? Already got the hots for Minseok? I mean sorry to break it to you, but I think he’s already hooking up with some senior in the Law department.”
The wide eyed boy turned around, “For a prep you’re pretty sarcastic.”
“What, you thought just because I wear nice clothes that I’m automatically a stuck up? You’re not fitting to stereotypes yourself.”
“How so?”
“Well for starters, you look pretty innocent, but I know you’re Satan’s son.”
“Oh no, you caught me. My cover’s been blown.”
“Hey, no need to be hostile Ksoo. C’mon these CDs are just begging us to stack them,” Junmyeon waved a Beyonce disk in front of the other’s face with a large grin on his face.
“Ksoo?” Kyungsoo wondered as he placed a Fall Out Boy album on a nearby shelf.
“Yeah, it’s your new nickname.”
“If I get a bad nickname, so do you. I’ll call you Junma.”
Junmyeon choked on his own spit and laughed, “What the hell is Junma?”
“You. You is Junma,” Kyungsoo smirked at his coworker’s annoyed expression.
“Fine I get it. No nicknames.”
The two ended their banter quickly after, placing each of the disks in their piles to their respective sections. Being the only people in the room made the entire situation more awkward for Kyungsoo who just wanted experience before he became a producer himself. But of course his plan had to be ruined by some prep with a smart mouth. Who knew such a pretty face could spew such vile words? Wait, pretty face? Did that thought just cross his mind? No, no, no, it couldn’t have. He promised himself he would focus on leaving the luxury prison called a university as soon as possible, not hooking up with strangers.
Deep within his own head, Kyungsoo failed to notice the eager underclassman waving a brightly colored flyer in front of his face.
“Hey Kyungsoo! Stop daydreaming and listen to me for once!” Junmyeon shouted with authority, something that caught the other by surprise.
“What is it?” Kyungsoo snatched the paper from his hand and read the bold lettering, “Acapella groups?”
“Yeah, c’mon let’s audition!”
“Sorry, but I don’t sing,” he turned around and walked to the opposite corner of the station, occupying himself with a conveniently placed duster.
Junmyeon grabbed the cleaning tool from his reach, “Why do I get the feeling you’re lying to me?”
“I don’t know. Maybe your people reading skills are off.”
“You know what,” Junmyeon spun Kyungsoo around and pinned him to the wall, “Let’s both go. If you don’t want to audition, fine. I’m gonna need some support anyway.”
Kyungsoo pushed on the older boy with disgust, “Fine I’ll go, but don’t expect me to sing for them,” he noticed that his shift was over and gathered his belongings, “And don’t violate my personal space.”
“I knew you’d say yes.”
“Shut up.”
“See you on Friday, Kyungsoo!”
Kyungsoo laughed half-heartedly before leaving behind the annoying preppy boy who might’ve been the reason he felt some blood rush to his cheeks. But the college freshman only blamed that on his allergies.
“Kris, we’re never gonna get enough people at this rate,” the silver-haired vice president of one of the school’s two acapella groups, Seoul Music, whined.
“Not with that attitude Sehun. Now,” Kris shoved a pile of papers in the other’s hands, “hand out these flyers.”
“Audition for Seoul Music?” Sehun passed a paper to an oncoming student.
“Acapella, huh?” The boy responded.
“Can you sing?”
“Yeah. I was named the best singer in my choir...with teeth. I sang at a nursing home.”
“So what’s your name?” Kris asked him.
“Baekhyun, but call me Bacon,” He answered flatly.
“You call yourself Bacon?”
“Yeah so twig bitches like you don’t do it behind my back.”
“We’ll see you at auditions, Bacon.”
“I also do dancing like modern dancing, break dancing, and mermaid dancing,” Bacon lowered himself to the floor and flailed his legs around, “It’s a lot of floor work.”
“Um, okay. That’s...something we look forward to seeing from you later.”
The strange boy brushed himself off and walked away with a smile to which Kris and Sehun faced each other in confusion.
“We’re gonna need the best of the best if we want to destroy the Treblemakers. Those hormonal idiots have to know where they stand in the food chain,” Kris balled up his fists in anger as he watched the rival group show off their skills across the courtyard.
“Chanyeol, Chanyeol, no. How many times have I told you you can’t improv during my solo? I’m the star here,” the Treblemaker’s leader, Jongin, yelled at their beatboxer and rapper.
Chanyeol rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath, “Asshole.”
“Alright, from the top guys!”
“Okay aca-losers let’s get this year’s auditions on the road!” Jongin shouted as he entered the auditorium.
“Who made you in charge, Jongin?” Kris questioned the obnoxious singer.
“I did, ever since we were crowned National champions last year, and you had your...splash zone incident.”
“Don’t get your hopes up, we’ll win that title.”
Jongin only smirked as he sat down in the second row of the audience, resting his feet on the row in front of him in a carefree attitude, “We’ll see. Bring in the first victim.”
A small looking student shuffled out on stage in plain clothing and a black snapback that made it difficult to make out who it was. Chanyeol leaned back in his seat and placed an elbow on the arm rest to his left, “Whenever you’re ready, miss.”
The auditioner took off the hat with a swift flick of the hand, “Hi, my name is Luhan.”
“Whelp, not a girl,” Chanyeol leaned to Jongin, “He’s not a girl.”
Luhan finished his audition to which Kris and Sehun glanced excitedly at each other. This year might mark Seoul Music’s comeback. The following auditioner was a fairly tall boy with an innocent face similar to Luhan’s. He stopped on the white X over center stage and looked to the two groups for further instruction.
Kris waved his hand as an “okay” for the student to being, “Go ahead.”
Taking a breath the boy said in a barely audible voice, “Hello my name is Zhang Yixing. I have horns like a sheep.”
“I-I’m sorry?”
Yixing repeated what he said in the same manner, “Hello my name is Zhang Yixing, and I have horns like a sheep.”
“Okay…” Sehun muttered to himself.
“He’s all yours,” Jongin joked as Yixing could barely be heard during his audition.
Kris sighed as he worriedly turned his head to the stage for the next audition. The boy walking out to the center looked normal, but he knew better than to assume just by looks. From what he observed, Luhan could pass off as a girl, and Yixing looked fine until he opened his mouth. Clearly, his reading skills weren’t at the best of their ability.
The next student up dressed in preppy attire with an air of confidence surrounding him, “Hi, my name is Junmyeon.”
“You can start whenever you’re ready,” Jongin calmly replied, thankful that they finally had someone sane.
Junmyeon’s voice was beautiful to be put simply. The melody rang throughout the auditorium in perfect pitch, echoing with the same energy the singer exuded. Every note he sang contained his pure, raw emotions. Jongin and Kris were awestruck. In fact, after Junmyeon left the stage, both leaders argued over who would be taking him in.
“Well, I guess that’s everyone,” Chanyeol stated while glancing around the auditorium.
“Wait no, there’s one more,” Sehun pointed to the shadow of a figure hiding in the corner on stage, “Come on out. C’mon.”
The boy was coaxed into the light by Sehun’s soft voice, still nervous about the situation. His short height gave him an innocent demeanor despite the dark thoughts clouding his mind.
I’m gonna kill Junmyeon after this.
“So, what’s your name?” Kris questioned.
“Do Kyungsoo,” the freshman replied flatly, unsuccessfully masking his annoyance.
“You can start whenever.”
“Um, I didn’t know we needed to prepare a certain song.”
“Oh no that’s fine, just sing whatever you want then.”
Kyungsoo took a deep breath and parted his lips, a melodious tune flowing out. The lyrics he sang turned insignificant to the judges with the soft and smooth lilts of notes combined with his deep tone. Once finished, he scampered off stage as quickly as possible to avoid anymore eye contact or interaction with the other students. All the boy wished was to head back to the station and talk to Minseok about his demo. He could care less about what some singing clubs think about him.
Kyungsoo glanced at his watch and cursed at how late the time read. His audition took longer than expected, so he didn’t have time to walk to the radio station tonight.
“That flash drive better still be there tomorrow,” Kyungsoo angrily mumbled under his breath.
“C’mon he’s right there!” Sehun shouted from one of the courtyard benches at his partner in crime.
“I know, I know. I got this,” Kris assured the jumpy male with confidence.
The tall boy snuck behind the unsuspecting student, throwing a dark bag over his head. The student being kidnapped began to thrash about in confusion and annoyance, “What the hell is this! Let go of me! Hey, rape! Rape!”
“Shut up we’re not here to rape you,” Kris laughed at the other’s theatrics.
“That’s what they all say.”
“Okay, welcome fresh meat to your initiation. We have a lot to do in little time, so you better pull your shit together,” Kris paced around the lineup of masked initiates in Seoul Music’s practice space.
“Alright losers this is your first step to acapella stardom so listen up,” Jongin announced to the small line of boys in the Treblemaker’s fraternity.
Chanyeol pulled off the bags covering the students’ faces one by one, announcing their roles in the group. Not many people made it into the group, unfortunately, but they believed their vocal arsenal would be tough to match.
Sehun walked over to the first two unsuspecting singers and ripped off their masks, letting them adjust to the harsh light, “The sopranos, Luhan and Bacon.”
Only one person was left standing covered in the Treblemaker’s lineup. Chanyeol happily yanked the last dark bag off of the singer’s face, “Junmyeon, mezzo.”
Junmyeon blinked a few times before swivelling his head around his environment, “No Kyungsoo?”
Sehun exposed the second set of two singers to the brightness of the candlelight, “The mezzo Yixing, and the alto Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo scans the room full of people secretly hoping to see a familiar face, “No Junmyeon?”
“Now we don’t do all that ceremony crap that you see in the movies,” Sehun blurted out after observing the confusion on the new members’ faces.
“Let’s party!” Kris exclaimed, running towards the exit door in excitement.
Every year after induction, all of the acapella groups on campus gather for a party on the lawn of the university. The tradition’s original intent was originally for some fun conversations between groups, but in this day and age, most of the time the party ends with multiple one night stands and eviction from their respective groups. Rules weren’t a part of the acapella vocabulary; however, one universal law stands: members cannot hook up. To the leaders, hook ups meant relationships, which meant vulnerability, which in turn meant distraction from their singing. As sworn rivals, Seoul Music and the Treblemakers had no capacity to grow to appreciate each other’s company for more than five minutes. Quite frankly if it wasn’t for the alcohol, no one would talk to the other group.
“Hey Kyungsoo, you made it in!” Junmyeon shouted with two red solo cups in his hands.
Kyungsoo smiled at the clumsiness of his coworker when he accidentally spilled some of the cups’ contents on a kissing couple on his way to the boy. He probably already had a drink or two before Seoul Music even arrived.
“Don’t step too close, we’re enemies now,” Kyungsoo put his palms out in a joking manner.
“Oh shut up. You and I both know how many people hook up tonight and don’t get caught.”
“Are you hinting at something here?” The wide eyed boy raised an eyebrow.
“Maybe, maybe not,” Junmyeon took a swig of his drink before handing the other cup to Kyungsoo, “All I’m saying is that you’re in an acapella group, I’m in an acapella group, if we come together we can adopt some aca-children.”
“You’re drunk.”
“No I’m not,” the preppy boy slurred and giggled.
“Yes, you are,” Kyungsoo poked his chest and watched the other sway slightly on his feet.
“Okay maybe a little.”
Junmyeon laughed, causing the other boy’s chest to flutter in delight. Something about his expressions and optimism made Kyungsoo feel less apprehensive with the world. Perhaps a relationship would be possible during his college years. No, this is just the alcohol talking. Don’t do anything you’ll regret, Kyungsoo.
On the other side of the party, Bacon sat on the grass drinking what he hoped was a cup of beer, but with college kids he couldn’t be so sure. A person tapped him on the shoulder, forcing him to meet the gaze of none other than Jongin himself.
“What do you want, Jongin?” Bacon asked impatiently. He has been told the stories of the asshole in front of him, and he didn’t want to become another one of his anecdotes to his friends.
“Aw c’mon, don’t enjoy my company?” Jongin replied with a cheeky grin, sitting down right next to the freshman.
“Eh, I’ve had better conversations with bingo players.”
“I can play bingo, let’s have a conversation.”
“I’d rather not,” He stood up to get more alcohol but was stopped by Jongin’s grasp on his arm.
“I’m sensing a lot of sexual tension. Do-do you feel the same or…”
“No don’t feel it,” Bacon winked at the boy suggestively.
“So you do feel it?”
“Nope,” He winked again before swatting away Jongin’s hand to walk to the beverage table.
“What a strange, strange boy you are Baekhyun.”
The following day brought on what many call “the day of shame.” Both groups gather for the first rehearsal of the acapella competition season, but some members may not last five minutes. Already, two from Seoul Music and the Treblemakers got the cut for having too much fun the previous night. Kris described the events as “something to do with blowing the flute and singing along.”
“Okay, let’s get things started. From now on we are doing cardio every week,” Kris announced to the group.
Bacon raised his hand, “Oh that won’t work for me. I don’t do cardio.”
Kris stepped over and stared directly into his eyes, “Well, suck it up because cardio will be your new best friend.”
“What about our setlist?” Kyungsoo wondered out loud.
“We’ll get there after we finish warm ups,” Kris answered the question plainly, “Now let’s move it people!”
Everyone quickly stood up from their chairs and began to do some stretches on the floor. Sehun took over as the dictator of the practice session and barked orders at the members, while still managing to sound somewhat nice about it.
“Yixing, pick your knees up higher! Luhan, stop fixing your hair!” Sehun paused to find Bacon laying on his side, “Bacon, what are you doing?”
“Horizontal running.”
“Oh my God,” Sehun facepalmed and shook his head as he walked away from the hopeless boy.
“Okay one last lap and it’s on to push ups!” Kris yelled as he gulped down his supply of water.
Groans from all of the group members sounded, but they tiredly obliged to the order. Everyone collapsed on the floor, pressing their cheeks to the cold flooring for comfort.
“Get up, get up, once we finish this we’re done for today. Sehun and I will send out the song list later and we’ll discuss our set next rehearsal,” Kris told the exhausted students.
“Alright I’m counting off and...Bacon no! You are not doing air push ups!” Sehun yelled at the lazy male trying to get away with high-fiving the air.
“Damnit,” Bacon muttered in defeat.
“Okay two sets of ten and then you can leave, got it?”
By the time their twentieth push up came, no one could feel their arms from the elbow down. Who knew a singing club would make someone exercise? For a fact, Kyungsoo strongly disliked the idea of exercising as a whole, but he didn’t want to be the next victim of the leaders’ wraths. If Junmyeon thought he was the devil, he should spend a few hours with those two embodiments of Satan.
Kyungsoo swung his backpack over his back and trekked up to the radio station for his shift with Junmyeon. His thighs burned with each step all thanks to Kris and Sehun. The entire acapella experience was a new world for him, and he still had a grudge against his co worker for dragging him into this mess.
“Hey Kyungsoo what happened? You look like you were just at hot yoga,” Junmyeon observed his sweaty appearance.
“Rehearsal,” Kyungsoo only had to utter one word for the other to understand his suffering.
“Ah, I see. Yeah I heard they’re pretty tough. Jongin’s not that different either to be honest.”
“Kyungsoo, you’re here, great. Listen I played your songs last night, and I think they’d be perfect to put on air. Nice job,” Minseok patted the freshman on the back, “I gotta be somewhere, so I want you two to clean up and alphabetize the records before you lock up, alright?”
Both employees nodded in sync to their boss as he exited the station. Kyungsoo walked over to the record shelves with a cleaning rag in tow, whistling a tune while he wiped down each record. Unbeknownst to him, Junmyeon decided to join in with his own harmonious whistling, strutting over to Kyungsoo’s side.
“So, you produce or something?” Junmyeon wondered with a playful smirk.
“Something,” Kyungsoo abruptly answered while continuing to tend to the records.
“That’s cool, you know. I’d really like to hear a demo of yours someday. Maybe we could even work together?” Junmyeon brightly remarked, looking at the labels of the records Kyungsoo just finished cleaning.
Kyungsoo couldn’t help but smile to himself at his coworker’s comment. No one, besides Minseok of course, heard his demos and actually liked them. Dealing with negativity wasn’t really his forte. The boy turned around to face the other, “I’d like that.”
Both freshman smiled at each other and looked straight into each other’s eyes. Neither of them knew what was happening, but all of the sudden they were mere inches apart. Junmyeon was the first to react, quickly pulling away and rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.
“So uh, I’ll clean, you’ll organize, okay?” Kyungsoo stuttered out after snapping out of their previous ordeal.
“Y-yeah let’s do that.”
Kyungsoo resumed wiping the cleaning rag against the ridged surface of a Beatles album. His cheeks tinted red from the awkward silence following their moment. Junmyeon silently organized the records in alphabetical order just as Minseok instructed, tongue tied from their near kiss. Their only relationship was as coworkers, nothing else. Friends? Yes, but nothing past that.
“So, Kyungsoo…” Junmyeon broke the silence hesitantly.
“Hm?” The other heard his name and inquired for him to continue.
“Um..uh...ar-are you…” Single? “Enjoying singing acapella?” Damn it, Junmyeon.
“Oh, well yeah kinda. It’s different than what I’m used to, you know...equipment and stuff. What about you? Liking Jongin’s tirade?”
Junmyeon chuckled, “You heard about that?”
“Mm-hm.”
“I mean he’s not that bad during rehearsal if you’re on his good side anyway. I like it, the acapella. I like taking my singing to a different level.”
“Yeah that’s what it is: taking it to a different level.”
“I’m just surprised we didn’t get in the same group. I kinda want to hear you sing.”
Kyungsoo smiled a little at the indirect compliment, “I asked Kris about it and he said that Treblemakers needed another mezzo more than Seoul Music did, plus they already had an alto singer, so that’s why we were split up.”
“Oh. You asked about me?” Junmyeon brightly smiled at the fact that he was the reason for the discussion.
“Yeah, I mean you did drag me into this whole thing.”
“But you like it.”
“I guess...now that we’re in rival groups.”
“Hey! We’re still friends here!”
“Okay, fine. We’re still friends, but you’re going down at the regional competition.”
“You’re on.”
“Ah the Collegiate Acapella Regional Competition. Doesn’t this remind you of your college days Tao?”
“Yes, back when my friends were washing away their problems with alcohol, I was singing with my acapella group. Did you know I was the only boy in an all girl group, Jongdae?”
“No I did not. What was your group called?”
“The Minstrel Cycles.”
“What an unfortunate name. At least the costumes weren’t red.”
“Oh they were.”
Jongdae grimaced before collecting his professionalism to begin the official announcement; “Welcome to the 34th annual Collegiate Acapella Regional Competition where groups from across the state compete to move on to Nationals. I’m your very attractive commentator Kim Jongdae along with my average co-host Huang Zitao.”
“I believe you mean you’re attractive to the cops, Jongdae, I know what you’ve been up to lately,” Tao replied with his usual banter.
“That’s because you’ve been a part of it, Tao.”
“Don’t say that while we’re live.”
An all male group walked on stage with confidence, silencing the comments from Jongdae and Tao. The lights of the stage dimmed until the members were barely able to be seen.
“Now first to perform is Barden University’s Treblemakers. Oh if I was gay I’d definitely go for any one of those boys,” Jongdae began.
“You haven’t come out yet?” Tao joked with a serious tone.
As the leader, Jongin snapped his fingers to a beat to signal the beginning of their performance. The stage lights flicked on and the group immediately sang in perfect harmony, executing each of the choreographed moves correctly. Seoul Music stood backstage watching the Treblemakers perform. Kyungsoo couldn’t take his eyes off of Junmyeon who was one of the few members giving too much fanservice for his liking. Why did Jongin have to make him wink and unbutton his shirt? The small singer felt his head spin from the protective jealousy brewing inside of him. That was his Junmyeon; no one else could have him.
Speaking of Junmyeon, he spotted Kyungsoo standing in the front lines of his group and smiled directly at him, not forgetting to wink playfully as well.
“Someone’s got their eye on you,” Bacon teased Kyungsoo. He was the only outsider who suspected the star crossed pair.
Kyungsoo wasted no time to slap his fellow member, “Shut up.”
The Treblemakers soon finished their set and exited the stage to the sound of the applause of a packed house. Jongin lead the pack backstage, stopping in front of Kris and Seoul Music.
“See that? That was called singing, you should try it sometime,” Jongin said, provoking the other leader.
“Talking in a mirror, Jongin?” Sehun interjected with a smirk.
Jongin laughed sarcastically, “Good luck out there. You guys will be awesome...ly horrible. I hate you all, kill yourselves. Guy power, bros before hoes!”
Before anyone could think of a retort, a backstage assistant ushered the group to grab a mic and go on stage for their performance. Kyungsoo received a microphone from a volunteer and thanked him, but he was stopped by Junmyeon’s grip on his arm.
“Good luck Kyungsoo. You’ll be amazing out there,” Junmyeon smiled again at the alto singer.
“Thanks. You’re singing was beautiful by the way,” Kyungsoo complimented him.
“Kyungsoo, c’mon!” Kris shouted to the distracted boy.
“I gotta go,” Kyungsoo pointed to the stage.
“Break a leg,” Junmyeon cheered while quickly hugging the other.
Kyungsoo stood there awestruck. He hugged me. They never had any type of physical interaction before.
“Kyungsoo!” Kris shouted a second time.
“Coming!” The dazed boy jogged to his position next to Luhan on stage.
“And now we have Barden University’s Seoul Music,” Tao began his commentating on the upcoming performing group.
“Oh how can we forget that fateful moment last year where leader Kris turned the entire front row into a splash zone,” Jongdae added.
“When Jason Derulo wanted them to talk dirty, that was not what he had in mind.”
“Let’s see if Kris can redeem himself with this year’s,” Jongdae observed the members, “seemingly average lineup.”
Kyungsoo stood in position, ready for Kris’s count to begin their set. His palms were clammy from the nerves settling underneath his skin. He has never performed in front of a packed auditorium before. The only audience he sang for was his family when he was a teenager, and that environment pales in comparison to this moment. What if he messed up? What if he sang off key? What if he forgot the choreography? What if…
A small wave shook Kyungsoo out of his thoughts. He squinted his eyes to see where the motion came from, and pinpointed it on none other than Junmyeon. The Treblemakers have sat down in the audience front and center. Everyone held emotionless expressions except Junmyeon who was beaming and waving like a proud mother. The wide eyed boy couldn’t help but chuckle at his friend’s silliness. Thanks to him, the anxiety melted away as Kris counted the group off.
The stage lights came to life just as Seoul Music came to life. All of the members gave it their all, executing their cues better than they rehearsed. The equipment shining down on the group blinded them from seeing the crowd, but all Kyungsoo could see was the happy face of Junmyeon. He smiled brighter than the white lights enrobing the singer. At the moment Kyungsoo’s skin glowed from the stage lights and Junmyeon’s expression glowed amongst the dim audience, they both realized maybe they were more than just rival coworkers.
“And the fish does not swim up stream. I was afraid I was going to have flashbacks, Jongdae,” Tao announced after Kris successfully completed his solo without spewing his guts as he did last year.
“Seoul Music may finally make their comeback this year,” Jongdae added as the acapella group finished their set.
“We’ll see, we’ll see.”
Cheers erupted backstage as Seoul Music handed their microphones to the producers standing by. The entire group huddled into a large hug as Kris tried to get their attention.
“Now that’s how we steal the show!” Kris shouted with accomplishment. Perhaps, just perhaps they finally have a chance.
“Kyungsoo, you were amazing!” A voice screamed from the door connecting the lobby to the stage.
Before he could comprehend what was happening, Kyungsoo was engulfed in a back breaking hug by Junmyeon. The heightened emotions overwhelmed both singers, and the preppy boy pressed his lips to Kyungsoo’s cheek without thinking. The two separated after realizing their actions, both trying to hide their blushing faces from the rest of the groups.
“Ooh, Kyungsoo’s gonna get laid tonight!” Bacon shouted while throwing his arm around said student’s shoulder.
The freshman hastily pushed Bacon’s arm off his body, “When will you ever shut up?”
“When you finally make the right choice.”
“The right choice for what?”
“You know,” he tilted his head towards Junmyeon who was busy talking to Chanyeol.
“You’re unbelievable.”
“I’m right though.”
Oh how true it was.
“Nationals are coming up which means more rehearsing if we want to finally win that title,” Kris told the acapella group.
Bacon groaned, “No more cardio, please.”
“Shut up Bacon. We don’t want to suffer because you’re too lazy to get off your ass,” Luhan sassed back at the whiny boy.
“You’re one to talk! I see you cheating the push ups every time!”
“Hey, shut it! No fighting,” Sehun stepped up to take authoritative action.
“I won a fight against a sumo wrestler,” Yixing whispered in his normal tone of voice.
“What?” Luhan asked the strange boy.
“What’d he say?” Bacon wondered.
Luhan shrugged and stared at Yixing who was busy playing with the hem of his shirt. Kris went back to explaining their game plan for the upcoming competition, ignoring the members’ usual banter. With the Treblemakers moving on as well, they would have to put in more effort to top whatever Jongin had up his sleeve. If it was anything like last year’s Magic Mike performance, Seoul Music would be screwed. No one could top a tan, fit college student taking off his shirt, not even a professional stripper.
“Okay, so basically we’re mashing up a bunch of today’s hits while doing as many hip thrusts as possible. Kyungsoo, you’re in charge of composing the mashup setlist. Luhan, you can work with Sehun on choreography. As for everybody else, you’ll be working with me on costuming and harmonizing,” Kris wrapped up the rehearsal by creating a chart on a large whiteboard he stole from one of the professors. “You can go now.”
Kyungsoo picked up his small backpack, stuffing the sheet of suggested songs in a side pocket before opening the door. He took in a deep breath in preparation for his shift at the station. After working there for a few months, he has become accustomed to Minseok’s sarcasm and Junmyeon’s peppy attitude. He especially anticipated the latter every day.
“Long time no see Kyungsoo. So, how was rehearsal?” Junmyeon initiated the conversation before the other could step a foot into the radio station.
“You know, normal. Kris put me in charge of our set,” Kyungsoo plainly replied with a shrug.
“He made a good choice.”
Kyungsoo’s heart fluttered but he calmed down to continue their conversation; “How’s your group holding up?”
“Well Jongin’s been kinda distant recently. He won’t say why. Chanyeol took over as unofficial leader the last few practices.”
“It’s about time. He’s an ass sometimes.”
“Make that all the time. The only times he’s not a complete jerk is when he’s fanboying over Bacon.”
“Jongin likes Bacon?”
“Mhm. But their relationship is weird, don’t get me started.”
“I’d rather not know what they’re doing...for the sake of my ears.”
Junmyeon laughed, “I wish I could forget.”
A comfortable silence settled down over the two interns as they worked. Both of them snuck glances at each other every so often in between the shelves of records and CDs. Junmyeon opened his mouth to speak but closed it immediately after. He clearly remembered what he almost asked the freshman on the opposite side of the room: What are we?
Next time, definitely next time he would ask that question. For now, settling for admiring from afar would have to do.
“Alright losers listen up I have an important announcement to make,” Jongin shouted over the noise of his groupmates’ voices.
Everyone rolled their eyes as they paused their conversations to hear whatever their leader had to say. Jongin took that as a sign to continue, “I just got a deal with SM Entertainment, and they’re making me a star.”
“What does that mean?” Chanyeol asked with a mix of confusion and anger in his question.
“It means I’m ditching this dump and moving out to Korea. My flight leaves in a few hours, so later bitches!”
Jongin turned to walk out the door, but Chanyeol angrily stopped him, “What about Nationals?”
“That’s not my problem anymore. You figure it out,” he grabbed the door handle, “Have fun!”
The door slammed shut, and the entirety of the group stood in silence. Everyone looked at one another in defeat.
“Now what do we do?” Junmyeon broke the silence and looked to Chanyeol for guidance.
“Well, we need another alto singer. That’s our priority,” Chanyeol replied, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.
At his words, Junmyeon thought of the perfect replacement. And conveniently enough, he would be seeing him in a few minutes.
“Leave that to me,” Junmyeon assured the new unofficial leader of the Treblemakers.
With that the hyperactive singer ran out of the meeting to go find his target, running halfway across campus to his internship. His momentum made him crash head on into the wall of the radio station, but he recovered quickly and swung the door open forcefully.
“Kyungsoo!” Junmyeon shouted from the doorway.
Minseok held his ears, “Why do you have to be so loud?”
Ignoring his boss, the boy ran into Kyungsoo who was busy dusting shelves of CDs, “Kyungsoo!”
“What?” The freshman asked flatly.
“I-we need you to be our alto singer.”
“What do you mean?”
“Jongin ditched us for some company overseas and we need a replacement alto singer. You’re the first person I thought of.”
“Jongin? Asshole senior Jongin?” Minseok wondered, squeezing into their conversation.
Both boys nodded and Minseok continued, “Ha, good riddance.”
“So, will you do it?” Junmyeon waited with anticipation.
“Will I have to quit Seoul Music?” Kyungsoo questioned his friend. He couldn’t leave his group, that would be betraying them.
“No! No, you won’t have to. You can do both!”
Kyungsoo paused in thought before nodding, “I’ll help you out.”
“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! You’re the best!” Junmyeon jumped and embraced the other intern with happiness.
Now we can be together more often, Kyungsoo’s mind whispered with admiration.
“I have to go tell Chanyeol!” Junmyeon ran out of the station without saying goodbye to either of the other two college students in the room.
Minseok nodded towards the exit, “Go follow him.”
Kyungsoo thanks his employer and runs after Junmyeon to the Treblemaker’s practice space. He wasn’t so sure where he was going, but he eventually heard the sweet lilt of Junmyeon’s voice from a building on the side of campus and used it to guide him.
“You found someone?” Chanyeol asked Junmyeon with suspicion.
“Yeah, I-” Junmyeon paused once he noticed Kyungsoo panting outside the room from running. “Kyungsoo!”
“Hey,” Kyungsoo waved a hand up while heavily breathing.
Junmyeon wrapped his arm around the exhausted boy’s shoulder and supported his weight, “Kyungsoo will be our replacement.”
“But he’s in Seoul Music. He can’t be in two groups can he?” Chanyeol wondered.
“He’s not gonna be an official member, so we don’t violate any rules.”
“I’ll have to talk to Kris about this,” he takes out his phone, “I’ll call him.”
Chanyeol dials Kris’s number and steps away to take the call. The rest of the boys all stand in waiting, hoping the other leader would agree to the plan.
“Hey Kris it’s Chanyeol. Yeah, I know. I know, we’re pissed, but good riddance am I right? Listen, I have something to discuss with you. Since Jongin’s out we need an alto to fill his spot. Mhm, yeah Junmyeon suggested Kyungsoo. No, no it shouldn’t be illegal. He’s only a fill-in not a full member. Okay I’ll talk to the officials. Okay, thanks. I’ll let you know what they say. Bye.”
Junmyeon huddled a little too close to Kyungsoo’s side as he cautiously asked his new leader about the future of their group; “So, what’d he say?”
“Well, he agreed to the conditions,” the group cheered, “However, I have to call the acapella officials before we go on with teaching Kyungsoo our set.”
The rest of the group shared an exasperated sigh. Knowing the strictness of the judges, they would be hard to convince even if they were the current National Champions. Kyungsoo took the opportunity to say his goodbyes and return to his internship.
Once the boy left, Chanyeol eyed Junmyeon with a smirk, “You two have a thing or something?”
“No, we don’t,” the male in question responded too quickly to be unsuspicious.
“Do you want to have a thing with him?”
“Well...uh-”
“Don’t worry dude, I’ll hook you up,” Chanyeol winked with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
“Oh no.”
“Okay, we’ve gathered you all here today to discuss something important. As you may or may not know, Jongin left us and won’t be coming back,” Kris began his long speech in front of both Seoul Music and the Treblemakers.
“Kyungsoo has kindly agreed to fill in for the missing spot in Treblemakers as well as stay in Seoul Music, but we had to run that by the officials at nationals first,” Sehun continued where his leader left off.
“So I called them earlier today and we have a problem. According to their rules, no singer is allowed to perform in two groups or else both groups will be disqualified.”
“Then what do we do? We can’t perform without an alto, our whole setup would be off,” Junmyeon complained.
“We have two options. We can leave everything as is or we can combine into one group,” Chanyeol replied with reassurance from Kris and Sehun.
“Combine? What about the rivalry?” Bacon inquired towards the leaders of both acapella groups.
“That whole thing was just Jongin and his big ego,” Sehun snorted.
“Is that what we’re doing then, combining?” Luhan questioned the proposed idea.
“If everyone’s in agreement, then yes,” Kris responded while looking at the crowd of singers for some indication of opinions.
Unanimously, everyone voted for the two groups to merge into one whole group. To signify the unification, the official name became a combination of the names of the two previous ensembles: Treble in Seoul.
“Now, let’s talk performance. Nationals is in three weeks and we’re starting fresh. We need to put all of our effort into this set if we want to have a chance at winning. Get ready for three hell weeks gentlemen!” Chanyeol deviously interjected.
“Hey, at least now we can see each other more,” Junmyeon whispered to Kyungsoo who was seated to his right.
“Yeah, I think I’m gonna like this a lot,” Kyungsoo smiled at the cute expression of his new fellow member.
“Well it’s that time of year folks when the best of the best come to the Lincoln Center to battle it out in a sing off to the death,” Jongdae fixed his headset as he ad libbed his introduction.
“This is acapella, not the Hunger Games,” his co-anchor commented.
“Well it sure feels like we’re about to watch a bloodbath occur with the competition we have here today.”
“Yes, the Sockapellas seem like a hard group to match so far, but all eyes are on underdog group, Treble in Seoul.”
“To be honest Tao, I thought after the Treblemaker’s leader hit the road they would be done. I never expected them to combine with their long term rivals, Seoul Music.”
“It’s a miracle, Jongdae. Just like it’s a miracle you still have your job.”
Jongdae ignored Tao’s snarky comment and turned to the stage, “ Well it looks like the underdogs are taking the stage for what could be their first and last performance.”
“Ready Kyungsoo?” Junmyeon asked his group mate while lightly massaging his shoulders.
“I’m a little nervous actually,” the boy confessed quietly.
“Why? You’ll be fine. We’re doing this together remember? I got your back.”
“C’mon, it’s time guys,” Chanyeol motioned for the stragglers to head to the stage for their set.
“Let’s do this,” Junmyeon kissed the other’s forehead and dragged his body to their positions.
The group’s performance was something unlike any of them had seen in their singing careers. Every part harmonized in perfect pitch, in perfect synchronization. The palpable energy surged through the entire audience, making them feel the emotions the singers felt on stage. Towards the end of the performance, the lights dimmed and Kyungsoo and Junmyeon shined as two bright stars among the darkness. A duet filled with raw passion; that combination sparked the gears in their hearts to work in unison, a euphoric feeling only described simply as love. Pure love.
The ending chord, the final propulsion for the pair’s relationship. Junmyeon swore he heard the angels sing a song of joy in Kyungsoo’s glowing aura.
The applause echoed throughout the Lincoln Center, but all Kyungsoo could hear was Junmyeon’s final note still singing its own song in his ears. The two hugged as if they would never lay eyes on the other again.
“The 2016 Collegiate Acapella National Champions are...Treble in Seoul!”
Junmyeon stared at the short alto singer in his arms, connecting his brown eyes with a set of deep chocolate ones. He moved his lips to the other’s ear to whisper something only the two could hear, “Would you do the honor of being my boyfriend?”
“I thought you’d never ask,” the couple sealed the deal with a kiss underneath the fluttering pieces of confetti on stage.
In a world full of consequences, Kyungsoo always tried to avoid trouble, but he never expected it to come in the form of music clefs and preppy outfits.
Rating: PG-13
Warnings: cursing, sexual innuendos
Word Count: 7.1k
Summary: Kyungsoo wants to live his college life on the down low: no scandals, no arrests, and definitely no relationships; that is until a certain bubbly student takes him into the world of treble, and college becomes a bit more interesting.
A/N: This is the story I wrote for the Reflection0112 fic fest way back when (even though it's only been almost two months). I'm so grateful for the mods of the fest for their hard work and for pulling me into the world of sudi fics...
“Um, hello?” Kyungsoo spoke to the radio station manager.
Not paying attention to the college freshman, Kyungsoo stepped closer to the booth holding the manager, “Excuse me,” he knocked on the glass window.
The noise startled said male, and he jumped in his seat, “Who are you? Freshmen aren’t allowed in the booth.”
“I’m the new intern.”
“I’m Minseok the station manager. You must be Kwangsoo.”
“It’s actually--”
Another boy ran into the room with a preppy outfit and a half loosened tie, “Hi, I’m Junmyeon.”
“Oh look who decided to show up. You’re late,” Minseok sarcastically remarked.
Junmyeon turned to look at Kyungsoo as a glint of recognition shined in his eyes, “Hey, you’re the guy from orientation!”
“I-I’m sorry? You might’ve got the wrong guy,” Kyungsoo denied him even though he knew exactly what he was talking about.
“No, no I’m pretty sure I saw you there. How can I forget the guy I sang to while we were waiting for everything to start?”
“I don’t know you.”
“Yeah, you do.”
“I don’t.”
“Hi, I’m Junmyeon. Now you do.”
“Whether you know each other or not, you’ll be getting real close from working here,” Minseok interrupted their bickering with a look of annoyance, “Let’s start off with my favorite ice breaker: stacking CDs.”
Minseok dropped a large pile of CDs into each of their hands, before heading towards the door, “And just...no sex in the station, alright. I’ve already had to deal with the consequences before.”
The door slammed shut as Minseok left the station to God knows where. Hopefully it wasn’t what Kyungsoo was thinking. He’s had to deal with enough strange bosses in his working career.
Placing a USB drive onto the desktop of the booth, Kyungsoo thought his action went unnoticed until Junmyeon spotted him, “Hey what’s that? Already got the hots for Minseok? I mean sorry to break it to you, but I think he’s already hooking up with some senior in the Law department.”
The wide eyed boy turned around, “For a prep you’re pretty sarcastic.”
“What, you thought just because I wear nice clothes that I’m automatically a stuck up? You’re not fitting to stereotypes yourself.”
“How so?”
“Well for starters, you look pretty innocent, but I know you’re Satan’s son.”
“Oh no, you caught me. My cover’s been blown.”
“Hey, no need to be hostile Ksoo. C’mon these CDs are just begging us to stack them,” Junmyeon waved a Beyonce disk in front of the other’s face with a large grin on his face.
“Ksoo?” Kyungsoo wondered as he placed a Fall Out Boy album on a nearby shelf.
“Yeah, it’s your new nickname.”
“If I get a bad nickname, so do you. I’ll call you Junma.”
Junmyeon choked on his own spit and laughed, “What the hell is Junma?”
“You. You is Junma,” Kyungsoo smirked at his coworker’s annoyed expression.
“Fine I get it. No nicknames.”
The two ended their banter quickly after, placing each of the disks in their piles to their respective sections. Being the only people in the room made the entire situation more awkward for Kyungsoo who just wanted experience before he became a producer himself. But of course his plan had to be ruined by some prep with a smart mouth. Who knew such a pretty face could spew such vile words? Wait, pretty face? Did that thought just cross his mind? No, no, no, it couldn’t have. He promised himself he would focus on leaving the luxury prison called a university as soon as possible, not hooking up with strangers.
Deep within his own head, Kyungsoo failed to notice the eager underclassman waving a brightly colored flyer in front of his face.
“Hey Kyungsoo! Stop daydreaming and listen to me for once!” Junmyeon shouted with authority, something that caught the other by surprise.
“What is it?” Kyungsoo snatched the paper from his hand and read the bold lettering, “Acapella groups?”
“Yeah, c’mon let’s audition!”
“Sorry, but I don’t sing,” he turned around and walked to the opposite corner of the station, occupying himself with a conveniently placed duster.
Junmyeon grabbed the cleaning tool from his reach, “Why do I get the feeling you’re lying to me?”
“I don’t know. Maybe your people reading skills are off.”
“You know what,” Junmyeon spun Kyungsoo around and pinned him to the wall, “Let’s both go. If you don’t want to audition, fine. I’m gonna need some support anyway.”
Kyungsoo pushed on the older boy with disgust, “Fine I’ll go, but don’t expect me to sing for them,” he noticed that his shift was over and gathered his belongings, “And don’t violate my personal space.”
“I knew you’d say yes.”
“Shut up.”
“See you on Friday, Kyungsoo!”
Kyungsoo laughed half-heartedly before leaving behind the annoying preppy boy who might’ve been the reason he felt some blood rush to his cheeks. But the college freshman only blamed that on his allergies.
“Kris, we’re never gonna get enough people at this rate,” the silver-haired vice president of one of the school’s two acapella groups, Seoul Music, whined.
“Not with that attitude Sehun. Now,” Kris shoved a pile of papers in the other’s hands, “hand out these flyers.”
“Audition for Seoul Music?” Sehun passed a paper to an oncoming student.
“Acapella, huh?” The boy responded.
“Can you sing?”
“Yeah. I was named the best singer in my choir...with teeth. I sang at a nursing home.”
“So what’s your name?” Kris asked him.
“Baekhyun, but call me Bacon,” He answered flatly.
“You call yourself Bacon?”
“Yeah so twig bitches like you don’t do it behind my back.”
“We’ll see you at auditions, Bacon.”
“I also do dancing like modern dancing, break dancing, and mermaid dancing,” Bacon lowered himself to the floor and flailed his legs around, “It’s a lot of floor work.”
“Um, okay. That’s...something we look forward to seeing from you later.”
The strange boy brushed himself off and walked away with a smile to which Kris and Sehun faced each other in confusion.
“We’re gonna need the best of the best if we want to destroy the Treblemakers. Those hormonal idiots have to know where they stand in the food chain,” Kris balled up his fists in anger as he watched the rival group show off their skills across the courtyard.
“Chanyeol, Chanyeol, no. How many times have I told you you can’t improv during my solo? I’m the star here,” the Treblemaker’s leader, Jongin, yelled at their beatboxer and rapper.
Chanyeol rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath, “Asshole.”
“Alright, from the top guys!”
“Okay aca-losers let’s get this year’s auditions on the road!” Jongin shouted as he entered the auditorium.
“Who made you in charge, Jongin?” Kris questioned the obnoxious singer.
“I did, ever since we were crowned National champions last year, and you had your...splash zone incident.”
“Don’t get your hopes up, we’ll win that title.”
Jongin only smirked as he sat down in the second row of the audience, resting his feet on the row in front of him in a carefree attitude, “We’ll see. Bring in the first victim.”
A small looking student shuffled out on stage in plain clothing and a black snapback that made it difficult to make out who it was. Chanyeol leaned back in his seat and placed an elbow on the arm rest to his left, “Whenever you’re ready, miss.”
The auditioner took off the hat with a swift flick of the hand, “Hi, my name is Luhan.”
“Whelp, not a girl,” Chanyeol leaned to Jongin, “He’s not a girl.”
Luhan finished his audition to which Kris and Sehun glanced excitedly at each other. This year might mark Seoul Music’s comeback. The following auditioner was a fairly tall boy with an innocent face similar to Luhan’s. He stopped on the white X over center stage and looked to the two groups for further instruction.
Kris waved his hand as an “okay” for the student to being, “Go ahead.”
Taking a breath the boy said in a barely audible voice, “Hello my name is Zhang Yixing. I have horns like a sheep.”
“I-I’m sorry?”
Yixing repeated what he said in the same manner, “Hello my name is Zhang Yixing, and I have horns like a sheep.”
“Okay…” Sehun muttered to himself.
“He’s all yours,” Jongin joked as Yixing could barely be heard during his audition.
Kris sighed as he worriedly turned his head to the stage for the next audition. The boy walking out to the center looked normal, but he knew better than to assume just by looks. From what he observed, Luhan could pass off as a girl, and Yixing looked fine until he opened his mouth. Clearly, his reading skills weren’t at the best of their ability.
The next student up dressed in preppy attire with an air of confidence surrounding him, “Hi, my name is Junmyeon.”
“You can start whenever you’re ready,” Jongin calmly replied, thankful that they finally had someone sane.
Junmyeon’s voice was beautiful to be put simply. The melody rang throughout the auditorium in perfect pitch, echoing with the same energy the singer exuded. Every note he sang contained his pure, raw emotions. Jongin and Kris were awestruck. In fact, after Junmyeon left the stage, both leaders argued over who would be taking him in.
“Well, I guess that’s everyone,” Chanyeol stated while glancing around the auditorium.
“Wait no, there’s one more,” Sehun pointed to the shadow of a figure hiding in the corner on stage, “Come on out. C’mon.”
The boy was coaxed into the light by Sehun’s soft voice, still nervous about the situation. His short height gave him an innocent demeanor despite the dark thoughts clouding his mind.
I’m gonna kill Junmyeon after this.
“So, what’s your name?” Kris questioned.
“Do Kyungsoo,” the freshman replied flatly, unsuccessfully masking his annoyance.
“You can start whenever.”
“Um, I didn’t know we needed to prepare a certain song.”
“Oh no that’s fine, just sing whatever you want then.”
Kyungsoo took a deep breath and parted his lips, a melodious tune flowing out. The lyrics he sang turned insignificant to the judges with the soft and smooth lilts of notes combined with his deep tone. Once finished, he scampered off stage as quickly as possible to avoid anymore eye contact or interaction with the other students. All the boy wished was to head back to the station and talk to Minseok about his demo. He could care less about what some singing clubs think about him.
Kyungsoo glanced at his watch and cursed at how late the time read. His audition took longer than expected, so he didn’t have time to walk to the radio station tonight.
“That flash drive better still be there tomorrow,” Kyungsoo angrily mumbled under his breath.
“C’mon he’s right there!” Sehun shouted from one of the courtyard benches at his partner in crime.
“I know, I know. I got this,” Kris assured the jumpy male with confidence.
The tall boy snuck behind the unsuspecting student, throwing a dark bag over his head. The student being kidnapped began to thrash about in confusion and annoyance, “What the hell is this! Let go of me! Hey, rape! Rape!”
“Shut up we’re not here to rape you,” Kris laughed at the other’s theatrics.
“That’s what they all say.”
“Okay, welcome fresh meat to your initiation. We have a lot to do in little time, so you better pull your shit together,” Kris paced around the lineup of masked initiates in Seoul Music’s practice space.
“Alright losers this is your first step to acapella stardom so listen up,” Jongin announced to the small line of boys in the Treblemaker’s fraternity.
Chanyeol pulled off the bags covering the students’ faces one by one, announcing their roles in the group. Not many people made it into the group, unfortunately, but they believed their vocal arsenal would be tough to match.
Sehun walked over to the first two unsuspecting singers and ripped off their masks, letting them adjust to the harsh light, “The sopranos, Luhan and Bacon.”
Only one person was left standing covered in the Treblemaker’s lineup. Chanyeol happily yanked the last dark bag off of the singer’s face, “Junmyeon, mezzo.”
Junmyeon blinked a few times before swivelling his head around his environment, “No Kyungsoo?”
Sehun exposed the second set of two singers to the brightness of the candlelight, “The mezzo Yixing, and the alto Kyungsoo.”
Kyungsoo scans the room full of people secretly hoping to see a familiar face, “No Junmyeon?”
“Now we don’t do all that ceremony crap that you see in the movies,” Sehun blurted out after observing the confusion on the new members’ faces.
“Let’s party!” Kris exclaimed, running towards the exit door in excitement.
Every year after induction, all of the acapella groups on campus gather for a party on the lawn of the university. The tradition’s original intent was originally for some fun conversations between groups, but in this day and age, most of the time the party ends with multiple one night stands and eviction from their respective groups. Rules weren’t a part of the acapella vocabulary; however, one universal law stands: members cannot hook up. To the leaders, hook ups meant relationships, which meant vulnerability, which in turn meant distraction from their singing. As sworn rivals, Seoul Music and the Treblemakers had no capacity to grow to appreciate each other’s company for more than five minutes. Quite frankly if it wasn’t for the alcohol, no one would talk to the other group.
“Hey Kyungsoo, you made it in!” Junmyeon shouted with two red solo cups in his hands.
Kyungsoo smiled at the clumsiness of his coworker when he accidentally spilled some of the cups’ contents on a kissing couple on his way to the boy. He probably already had a drink or two before Seoul Music even arrived.
“Don’t step too close, we’re enemies now,” Kyungsoo put his palms out in a joking manner.
“Oh shut up. You and I both know how many people hook up tonight and don’t get caught.”
“Are you hinting at something here?” The wide eyed boy raised an eyebrow.
“Maybe, maybe not,” Junmyeon took a swig of his drink before handing the other cup to Kyungsoo, “All I’m saying is that you’re in an acapella group, I’m in an acapella group, if we come together we can adopt some aca-children.”
“You’re drunk.”
“No I’m not,” the preppy boy slurred and giggled.
“Yes, you are,” Kyungsoo poked his chest and watched the other sway slightly on his feet.
“Okay maybe a little.”
Junmyeon laughed, causing the other boy’s chest to flutter in delight. Something about his expressions and optimism made Kyungsoo feel less apprehensive with the world. Perhaps a relationship would be possible during his college years. No, this is just the alcohol talking. Don’t do anything you’ll regret, Kyungsoo.
On the other side of the party, Bacon sat on the grass drinking what he hoped was a cup of beer, but with college kids he couldn’t be so sure. A person tapped him on the shoulder, forcing him to meet the gaze of none other than Jongin himself.
“What do you want, Jongin?” Bacon asked impatiently. He has been told the stories of the asshole in front of him, and he didn’t want to become another one of his anecdotes to his friends.
“Aw c’mon, don’t enjoy my company?” Jongin replied with a cheeky grin, sitting down right next to the freshman.
“Eh, I’ve had better conversations with bingo players.”
“I can play bingo, let’s have a conversation.”
“I’d rather not,” He stood up to get more alcohol but was stopped by Jongin’s grasp on his arm.
“I’m sensing a lot of sexual tension. Do-do you feel the same or…”
“No don’t feel it,” Bacon winked at the boy suggestively.
“So you do feel it?”
“Nope,” He winked again before swatting away Jongin’s hand to walk to the beverage table.
“What a strange, strange boy you are Baekhyun.”
The following day brought on what many call “the day of shame.” Both groups gather for the first rehearsal of the acapella competition season, but some members may not last five minutes. Already, two from Seoul Music and the Treblemakers got the cut for having too much fun the previous night. Kris described the events as “something to do with blowing the flute and singing along.”
“Okay, let’s get things started. From now on we are doing cardio every week,” Kris announced to the group.
Bacon raised his hand, “Oh that won’t work for me. I don’t do cardio.”
Kris stepped over and stared directly into his eyes, “Well, suck it up because cardio will be your new best friend.”
“What about our setlist?” Kyungsoo wondered out loud.
“We’ll get there after we finish warm ups,” Kris answered the question plainly, “Now let’s move it people!”
Everyone quickly stood up from their chairs and began to do some stretches on the floor. Sehun took over as the dictator of the practice session and barked orders at the members, while still managing to sound somewhat nice about it.
“Yixing, pick your knees up higher! Luhan, stop fixing your hair!” Sehun paused to find Bacon laying on his side, “Bacon, what are you doing?”
“Horizontal running.”
“Oh my God,” Sehun facepalmed and shook his head as he walked away from the hopeless boy.
“Okay one last lap and it’s on to push ups!” Kris yelled as he gulped down his supply of water.
Groans from all of the group members sounded, but they tiredly obliged to the order. Everyone collapsed on the floor, pressing their cheeks to the cold flooring for comfort.
“Get up, get up, once we finish this we’re done for today. Sehun and I will send out the song list later and we’ll discuss our set next rehearsal,” Kris told the exhausted students.
“Alright I’m counting off and...Bacon no! You are not doing air push ups!” Sehun yelled at the lazy male trying to get away with high-fiving the air.
“Damnit,” Bacon muttered in defeat.
“Okay two sets of ten and then you can leave, got it?”
By the time their twentieth push up came, no one could feel their arms from the elbow down. Who knew a singing club would make someone exercise? For a fact, Kyungsoo strongly disliked the idea of exercising as a whole, but he didn’t want to be the next victim of the leaders’ wraths. If Junmyeon thought he was the devil, he should spend a few hours with those two embodiments of Satan.
Kyungsoo swung his backpack over his back and trekked up to the radio station for his shift with Junmyeon. His thighs burned with each step all thanks to Kris and Sehun. The entire acapella experience was a new world for him, and he still had a grudge against his co worker for dragging him into this mess.
“Hey Kyungsoo what happened? You look like you were just at hot yoga,” Junmyeon observed his sweaty appearance.
“Rehearsal,” Kyungsoo only had to utter one word for the other to understand his suffering.
“Ah, I see. Yeah I heard they’re pretty tough. Jongin’s not that different either to be honest.”
“Kyungsoo, you’re here, great. Listen I played your songs last night, and I think they’d be perfect to put on air. Nice job,” Minseok patted the freshman on the back, “I gotta be somewhere, so I want you two to clean up and alphabetize the records before you lock up, alright?”
Both employees nodded in sync to their boss as he exited the station. Kyungsoo walked over to the record shelves with a cleaning rag in tow, whistling a tune while he wiped down each record. Unbeknownst to him, Junmyeon decided to join in with his own harmonious whistling, strutting over to Kyungsoo’s side.
“So, you produce or something?” Junmyeon wondered with a playful smirk.
“Something,” Kyungsoo abruptly answered while continuing to tend to the records.
“That’s cool, you know. I’d really like to hear a demo of yours someday. Maybe we could even work together?” Junmyeon brightly remarked, looking at the labels of the records Kyungsoo just finished cleaning.
Kyungsoo couldn’t help but smile to himself at his coworker’s comment. No one, besides Minseok of course, heard his demos and actually liked them. Dealing with negativity wasn’t really his forte. The boy turned around to face the other, “I’d like that.”
Both freshman smiled at each other and looked straight into each other’s eyes. Neither of them knew what was happening, but all of the sudden they were mere inches apart. Junmyeon was the first to react, quickly pulling away and rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.
“So uh, I’ll clean, you’ll organize, okay?” Kyungsoo stuttered out after snapping out of their previous ordeal.
“Y-yeah let’s do that.”
Kyungsoo resumed wiping the cleaning rag against the ridged surface of a Beatles album. His cheeks tinted red from the awkward silence following their moment. Junmyeon silently organized the records in alphabetical order just as Minseok instructed, tongue tied from their near kiss. Their only relationship was as coworkers, nothing else. Friends? Yes, but nothing past that.
“So, Kyungsoo…” Junmyeon broke the silence hesitantly.
“Hm?” The other heard his name and inquired for him to continue.
“Um..uh...ar-are you…” Single? “Enjoying singing acapella?” Damn it, Junmyeon.
“Oh, well yeah kinda. It’s different than what I’m used to, you know...equipment and stuff. What about you? Liking Jongin’s tirade?”
Junmyeon chuckled, “You heard about that?”
“Mm-hm.”
“I mean he’s not that bad during rehearsal if you’re on his good side anyway. I like it, the acapella. I like taking my singing to a different level.”
“Yeah that’s what it is: taking it to a different level.”
“I’m just surprised we didn’t get in the same group. I kinda want to hear you sing.”
Kyungsoo smiled a little at the indirect compliment, “I asked Kris about it and he said that Treblemakers needed another mezzo more than Seoul Music did, plus they already had an alto singer, so that’s why we were split up.”
“Oh. You asked about me?” Junmyeon brightly smiled at the fact that he was the reason for the discussion.
“Yeah, I mean you did drag me into this whole thing.”
“But you like it.”
“I guess...now that we’re in rival groups.”
“Hey! We’re still friends here!”
“Okay, fine. We’re still friends, but you’re going down at the regional competition.”
“You’re on.”
“Ah the Collegiate Acapella Regional Competition. Doesn’t this remind you of your college days Tao?”
“Yes, back when my friends were washing away their problems with alcohol, I was singing with my acapella group. Did you know I was the only boy in an all girl group, Jongdae?”
“No I did not. What was your group called?”
“The Minstrel Cycles.”
“What an unfortunate name. At least the costumes weren’t red.”
“Oh they were.”
Jongdae grimaced before collecting his professionalism to begin the official announcement; “Welcome to the 34th annual Collegiate Acapella Regional Competition where groups from across the state compete to move on to Nationals. I’m your very attractive commentator Kim Jongdae along with my average co-host Huang Zitao.”
“I believe you mean you’re attractive to the cops, Jongdae, I know what you’ve been up to lately,” Tao replied with his usual banter.
“That’s because you’ve been a part of it, Tao.”
“Don’t say that while we’re live.”
An all male group walked on stage with confidence, silencing the comments from Jongdae and Tao. The lights of the stage dimmed until the members were barely able to be seen.
“Now first to perform is Barden University’s Treblemakers. Oh if I was gay I’d definitely go for any one of those boys,” Jongdae began.
“You haven’t come out yet?” Tao joked with a serious tone.
As the leader, Jongin snapped his fingers to a beat to signal the beginning of their performance. The stage lights flicked on and the group immediately sang in perfect harmony, executing each of the choreographed moves correctly. Seoul Music stood backstage watching the Treblemakers perform. Kyungsoo couldn’t take his eyes off of Junmyeon who was one of the few members giving too much fanservice for his liking. Why did Jongin have to make him wink and unbutton his shirt? The small singer felt his head spin from the protective jealousy brewing inside of him. That was his Junmyeon; no one else could have him.
Speaking of Junmyeon, he spotted Kyungsoo standing in the front lines of his group and smiled directly at him, not forgetting to wink playfully as well.
“Someone’s got their eye on you,” Bacon teased Kyungsoo. He was the only outsider who suspected the star crossed pair.
Kyungsoo wasted no time to slap his fellow member, “Shut up.”
The Treblemakers soon finished their set and exited the stage to the sound of the applause of a packed house. Jongin lead the pack backstage, stopping in front of Kris and Seoul Music.
“See that? That was called singing, you should try it sometime,” Jongin said, provoking the other leader.
“Talking in a mirror, Jongin?” Sehun interjected with a smirk.
Jongin laughed sarcastically, “Good luck out there. You guys will be awesome...ly horrible. I hate you all, kill yourselves. Guy power, bros before hoes!”
Before anyone could think of a retort, a backstage assistant ushered the group to grab a mic and go on stage for their performance. Kyungsoo received a microphone from a volunteer and thanked him, but he was stopped by Junmyeon’s grip on his arm.
“Good luck Kyungsoo. You’ll be amazing out there,” Junmyeon smiled again at the alto singer.
“Thanks. You’re singing was beautiful by the way,” Kyungsoo complimented him.
“Kyungsoo, c’mon!” Kris shouted to the distracted boy.
“I gotta go,” Kyungsoo pointed to the stage.
“Break a leg,” Junmyeon cheered while quickly hugging the other.
Kyungsoo stood there awestruck. He hugged me. They never had any type of physical interaction before.
“Kyungsoo!” Kris shouted a second time.
“Coming!” The dazed boy jogged to his position next to Luhan on stage.
“And now we have Barden University’s Seoul Music,” Tao began his commentating on the upcoming performing group.
“Oh how can we forget that fateful moment last year where leader Kris turned the entire front row into a splash zone,” Jongdae added.
“When Jason Derulo wanted them to talk dirty, that was not what he had in mind.”
“Let’s see if Kris can redeem himself with this year’s,” Jongdae observed the members, “seemingly average lineup.”
Kyungsoo stood in position, ready for Kris’s count to begin their set. His palms were clammy from the nerves settling underneath his skin. He has never performed in front of a packed auditorium before. The only audience he sang for was his family when he was a teenager, and that environment pales in comparison to this moment. What if he messed up? What if he sang off key? What if he forgot the choreography? What if…
A small wave shook Kyungsoo out of his thoughts. He squinted his eyes to see where the motion came from, and pinpointed it on none other than Junmyeon. The Treblemakers have sat down in the audience front and center. Everyone held emotionless expressions except Junmyeon who was beaming and waving like a proud mother. The wide eyed boy couldn’t help but chuckle at his friend’s silliness. Thanks to him, the anxiety melted away as Kris counted the group off.
The stage lights came to life just as Seoul Music came to life. All of the members gave it their all, executing their cues better than they rehearsed. The equipment shining down on the group blinded them from seeing the crowd, but all Kyungsoo could see was the happy face of Junmyeon. He smiled brighter than the white lights enrobing the singer. At the moment Kyungsoo’s skin glowed from the stage lights and Junmyeon’s expression glowed amongst the dim audience, they both realized maybe they were more than just rival coworkers.
“And the fish does not swim up stream. I was afraid I was going to have flashbacks, Jongdae,” Tao announced after Kris successfully completed his solo without spewing his guts as he did last year.
“Seoul Music may finally make their comeback this year,” Jongdae added as the acapella group finished their set.
“We’ll see, we’ll see.”
Cheers erupted backstage as Seoul Music handed their microphones to the producers standing by. The entire group huddled into a large hug as Kris tried to get their attention.
“Now that’s how we steal the show!” Kris shouted with accomplishment. Perhaps, just perhaps they finally have a chance.
“Kyungsoo, you were amazing!” A voice screamed from the door connecting the lobby to the stage.
Before he could comprehend what was happening, Kyungsoo was engulfed in a back breaking hug by Junmyeon. The heightened emotions overwhelmed both singers, and the preppy boy pressed his lips to Kyungsoo’s cheek without thinking. The two separated after realizing their actions, both trying to hide their blushing faces from the rest of the groups.
“Ooh, Kyungsoo’s gonna get laid tonight!” Bacon shouted while throwing his arm around said student’s shoulder.
The freshman hastily pushed Bacon’s arm off his body, “When will you ever shut up?”
“When you finally make the right choice.”
“The right choice for what?”
“You know,” he tilted his head towards Junmyeon who was busy talking to Chanyeol.
“You’re unbelievable.”
“I’m right though.”
Oh how true it was.
“Nationals are coming up which means more rehearsing if we want to finally win that title,” Kris told the acapella group.
Bacon groaned, “No more cardio, please.”
“Shut up Bacon. We don’t want to suffer because you’re too lazy to get off your ass,” Luhan sassed back at the whiny boy.
“You’re one to talk! I see you cheating the push ups every time!”
“Hey, shut it! No fighting,” Sehun stepped up to take authoritative action.
“I won a fight against a sumo wrestler,” Yixing whispered in his normal tone of voice.
“What?” Luhan asked the strange boy.
“What’d he say?” Bacon wondered.
Luhan shrugged and stared at Yixing who was busy playing with the hem of his shirt. Kris went back to explaining their game plan for the upcoming competition, ignoring the members’ usual banter. With the Treblemakers moving on as well, they would have to put in more effort to top whatever Jongin had up his sleeve. If it was anything like last year’s Magic Mike performance, Seoul Music would be screwed. No one could top a tan, fit college student taking off his shirt, not even a professional stripper.
“Okay, so basically we’re mashing up a bunch of today’s hits while doing as many hip thrusts as possible. Kyungsoo, you’re in charge of composing the mashup setlist. Luhan, you can work with Sehun on choreography. As for everybody else, you’ll be working with me on costuming and harmonizing,” Kris wrapped up the rehearsal by creating a chart on a large whiteboard he stole from one of the professors. “You can go now.”
Kyungsoo picked up his small backpack, stuffing the sheet of suggested songs in a side pocket before opening the door. He took in a deep breath in preparation for his shift at the station. After working there for a few months, he has become accustomed to Minseok’s sarcasm and Junmyeon’s peppy attitude. He especially anticipated the latter every day.
“Long time no see Kyungsoo. So, how was rehearsal?” Junmyeon initiated the conversation before the other could step a foot into the radio station.
“You know, normal. Kris put me in charge of our set,” Kyungsoo plainly replied with a shrug.
“He made a good choice.”
Kyungsoo’s heart fluttered but he calmed down to continue their conversation; “How’s your group holding up?”
“Well Jongin’s been kinda distant recently. He won’t say why. Chanyeol took over as unofficial leader the last few practices.”
“It’s about time. He’s an ass sometimes.”
“Make that all the time. The only times he’s not a complete jerk is when he’s fanboying over Bacon.”
“Jongin likes Bacon?”
“Mhm. But their relationship is weird, don’t get me started.”
“I’d rather not know what they’re doing...for the sake of my ears.”
Junmyeon laughed, “I wish I could forget.”
A comfortable silence settled down over the two interns as they worked. Both of them snuck glances at each other every so often in between the shelves of records and CDs. Junmyeon opened his mouth to speak but closed it immediately after. He clearly remembered what he almost asked the freshman on the opposite side of the room: What are we?
Next time, definitely next time he would ask that question. For now, settling for admiring from afar would have to do.
“Alright losers listen up I have an important announcement to make,” Jongin shouted over the noise of his groupmates’ voices.
Everyone rolled their eyes as they paused their conversations to hear whatever their leader had to say. Jongin took that as a sign to continue, “I just got a deal with SM Entertainment, and they’re making me a star.”
“What does that mean?” Chanyeol asked with a mix of confusion and anger in his question.
“It means I’m ditching this dump and moving out to Korea. My flight leaves in a few hours, so later bitches!”
Jongin turned to walk out the door, but Chanyeol angrily stopped him, “What about Nationals?”
“That’s not my problem anymore. You figure it out,” he grabbed the door handle, “Have fun!”
The door slammed shut, and the entirety of the group stood in silence. Everyone looked at one another in defeat.
“Now what do we do?” Junmyeon broke the silence and looked to Chanyeol for guidance.
“Well, we need another alto singer. That’s our priority,” Chanyeol replied, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.
At his words, Junmyeon thought of the perfect replacement. And conveniently enough, he would be seeing him in a few minutes.
“Leave that to me,” Junmyeon assured the new unofficial leader of the Treblemakers.
With that the hyperactive singer ran out of the meeting to go find his target, running halfway across campus to his internship. His momentum made him crash head on into the wall of the radio station, but he recovered quickly and swung the door open forcefully.
“Kyungsoo!” Junmyeon shouted from the doorway.
Minseok held his ears, “Why do you have to be so loud?”
Ignoring his boss, the boy ran into Kyungsoo who was busy dusting shelves of CDs, “Kyungsoo!”
“What?” The freshman asked flatly.
“I-we need you to be our alto singer.”
“What do you mean?”
“Jongin ditched us for some company overseas and we need a replacement alto singer. You’re the first person I thought of.”
“Jongin? Asshole senior Jongin?” Minseok wondered, squeezing into their conversation.
Both boys nodded and Minseok continued, “Ha, good riddance.”
“So, will you do it?” Junmyeon waited with anticipation.
“Will I have to quit Seoul Music?” Kyungsoo questioned his friend. He couldn’t leave his group, that would be betraying them.
“No! No, you won’t have to. You can do both!”
Kyungsoo paused in thought before nodding, “I’ll help you out.”
“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! You’re the best!” Junmyeon jumped and embraced the other intern with happiness.
Now we can be together more often, Kyungsoo’s mind whispered with admiration.
“I have to go tell Chanyeol!” Junmyeon ran out of the station without saying goodbye to either of the other two college students in the room.
Minseok nodded towards the exit, “Go follow him.”
Kyungsoo thanks his employer and runs after Junmyeon to the Treblemaker’s practice space. He wasn’t so sure where he was going, but he eventually heard the sweet lilt of Junmyeon’s voice from a building on the side of campus and used it to guide him.
“You found someone?” Chanyeol asked Junmyeon with suspicion.
“Yeah, I-” Junmyeon paused once he noticed Kyungsoo panting outside the room from running. “Kyungsoo!”
“Hey,” Kyungsoo waved a hand up while heavily breathing.
Junmyeon wrapped his arm around the exhausted boy’s shoulder and supported his weight, “Kyungsoo will be our replacement.”
“But he’s in Seoul Music. He can’t be in two groups can he?” Chanyeol wondered.
“He’s not gonna be an official member, so we don’t violate any rules.”
“I’ll have to talk to Kris about this,” he takes out his phone, “I’ll call him.”
Chanyeol dials Kris’s number and steps away to take the call. The rest of the boys all stand in waiting, hoping the other leader would agree to the plan.
“Hey Kris it’s Chanyeol. Yeah, I know. I know, we’re pissed, but good riddance am I right? Listen, I have something to discuss with you. Since Jongin’s out we need an alto to fill his spot. Mhm, yeah Junmyeon suggested Kyungsoo. No, no it shouldn’t be illegal. He’s only a fill-in not a full member. Okay I’ll talk to the officials. Okay, thanks. I’ll let you know what they say. Bye.”
Junmyeon huddled a little too close to Kyungsoo’s side as he cautiously asked his new leader about the future of their group; “So, what’d he say?”
“Well, he agreed to the conditions,” the group cheered, “However, I have to call the acapella officials before we go on with teaching Kyungsoo our set.”
The rest of the group shared an exasperated sigh. Knowing the strictness of the judges, they would be hard to convince even if they were the current National Champions. Kyungsoo took the opportunity to say his goodbyes and return to his internship.
Once the boy left, Chanyeol eyed Junmyeon with a smirk, “You two have a thing or something?”
“No, we don’t,” the male in question responded too quickly to be unsuspicious.
“Do you want to have a thing with him?”
“Well...uh-”
“Don’t worry dude, I’ll hook you up,” Chanyeol winked with a mischievous glint in his eyes.
“Oh no.”
“Okay, we’ve gathered you all here today to discuss something important. As you may or may not know, Jongin left us and won’t be coming back,” Kris began his long speech in front of both Seoul Music and the Treblemakers.
“Kyungsoo has kindly agreed to fill in for the missing spot in Treblemakers as well as stay in Seoul Music, but we had to run that by the officials at nationals first,” Sehun continued where his leader left off.
“So I called them earlier today and we have a problem. According to their rules, no singer is allowed to perform in two groups or else both groups will be disqualified.”
“Then what do we do? We can’t perform without an alto, our whole setup would be off,” Junmyeon complained.
“We have two options. We can leave everything as is or we can combine into one group,” Chanyeol replied with reassurance from Kris and Sehun.
“Combine? What about the rivalry?” Bacon inquired towards the leaders of both acapella groups.
“That whole thing was just Jongin and his big ego,” Sehun snorted.
“Is that what we’re doing then, combining?” Luhan questioned the proposed idea.
“If everyone’s in agreement, then yes,” Kris responded while looking at the crowd of singers for some indication of opinions.
Unanimously, everyone voted for the two groups to merge into one whole group. To signify the unification, the official name became a combination of the names of the two previous ensembles: Treble in Seoul.
“Now, let’s talk performance. Nationals is in three weeks and we’re starting fresh. We need to put all of our effort into this set if we want to have a chance at winning. Get ready for three hell weeks gentlemen!” Chanyeol deviously interjected.
“Hey, at least now we can see each other more,” Junmyeon whispered to Kyungsoo who was seated to his right.
“Yeah, I think I’m gonna like this a lot,” Kyungsoo smiled at the cute expression of his new fellow member.
“Well it’s that time of year folks when the best of the best come to the Lincoln Center to battle it out in a sing off to the death,” Jongdae fixed his headset as he ad libbed his introduction.
“This is acapella, not the Hunger Games,” his co-anchor commented.
“Well it sure feels like we’re about to watch a bloodbath occur with the competition we have here today.”
“Yes, the Sockapellas seem like a hard group to match so far, but all eyes are on underdog group, Treble in Seoul.”
“To be honest Tao, I thought after the Treblemaker’s leader hit the road they would be done. I never expected them to combine with their long term rivals, Seoul Music.”
“It’s a miracle, Jongdae. Just like it’s a miracle you still have your job.”
Jongdae ignored Tao’s snarky comment and turned to the stage, “ Well it looks like the underdogs are taking the stage for what could be their first and last performance.”
“Ready Kyungsoo?” Junmyeon asked his group mate while lightly massaging his shoulders.
“I’m a little nervous actually,” the boy confessed quietly.
“Why? You’ll be fine. We’re doing this together remember? I got your back.”
“C’mon, it’s time guys,” Chanyeol motioned for the stragglers to head to the stage for their set.
“Let’s do this,” Junmyeon kissed the other’s forehead and dragged his body to their positions.
The group’s performance was something unlike any of them had seen in their singing careers. Every part harmonized in perfect pitch, in perfect synchronization. The palpable energy surged through the entire audience, making them feel the emotions the singers felt on stage. Towards the end of the performance, the lights dimmed and Kyungsoo and Junmyeon shined as two bright stars among the darkness. A duet filled with raw passion; that combination sparked the gears in their hearts to work in unison, a euphoric feeling only described simply as love. Pure love.
The ending chord, the final propulsion for the pair’s relationship. Junmyeon swore he heard the angels sing a song of joy in Kyungsoo’s glowing aura.
The applause echoed throughout the Lincoln Center, but all Kyungsoo could hear was Junmyeon’s final note still singing its own song in his ears. The two hugged as if they would never lay eyes on the other again.
“The 2016 Collegiate Acapella National Champions are...Treble in Seoul!”
Junmyeon stared at the short alto singer in his arms, connecting his brown eyes with a set of deep chocolate ones. He moved his lips to the other’s ear to whisper something only the two could hear, “Would you do the honor of being my boyfriend?”
“I thought you’d never ask,” the couple sealed the deal with a kiss underneath the fluttering pieces of confetti on stage.
In a world full of consequences, Kyungsoo always tried to avoid trouble, but he never expected it to come in the form of music clefs and preppy outfits.