Chapter Twenty-Eight: Club Encounter

iao impatiently waved his hand, shooing away a few crew members like flies. Several other unnamed staff members also dispersed, helping to tidy up the other rooms. The bedroom that had been quite crow..., the Peninsula asteroid

The

preceding single is just a warm-up, the company won't invest too many resources in promoting it. Fans and the general public will just listen to it out of curiosity and hype, the focus will still be on the main title track after their official comeback.

However, the online discussion and heat generated by 《dope》, as well as v's surprisingly impressive performance on YouTube, can also be considered a pleasant surprise.

Especially v's click count is really impressive. Following this trend, "dope" might surpass "Growl" and become the most viewed song on v by EXO since their debut.

Maybe after some time, the members of a group with billions of views will have exo's presence.

As Park Jae-hyun mentioned before, the behind-the-scenes footage specifically for the K team members was also uploaded to YouTube. After uploading, each member also took the time to watch it individually.

>>>Just an ordinary close-up shot, there's nothing special about it. After watching his own close-up footage, Chi Jingyuan thought that he performed well, had a good presence, and was relaxed and cool on stage. He didn't see anything else particularly special.

>>>

Several of Chi Jingyuan's direct shots had the highest click counts, but they only reached a few tens of thousands, and even after being uploaded for two or three days, there wasn't much change. It seems that Park Hyeon's suggestion to make up for the lack of stage exposure with promotional means didn't seem to have much effect.

Well, never mind. It's not a big deal anyway. I guess it's just going back to being a fan.

After the release of the pre-release song, there weren't many promotional activities on the peninsula due to some reasons. It's unlike how the team is swamped in Xia Guo right now. These days, K Team has actually been quite relaxed.

The stage was only one, and besides a few interviews there were no other schedules. Most of the day was spent practicing the showcase stage for the 14th in the practice room, as well as preparing for the official comeback on the 15th.

And at noon on the 12th, Ji Jingyuan received a dating invitation. Since he was relatively free today and had nothing to do, he happily agreed.

…………

"Are you considering me when you chose a place so close to our company"

Pulling up a chair and sitting down, Ji Jingyuan glanced at Pei Xiuzhi who was sitting opposite him, clearly dressed up with care. He smiled as he ordered, "

Her brown wavy hair cascaded down her sides, her makeup was just right, not too heavy or light. Whether it was beauty lenses or something else, her eyes were bright and captivating with long eyelashes. Her lips were crystal clear and alluring, with the texture clearly visible. Today's lipstick shade seemed to be a killer tomato red.

In May, the temperature in Seoul has gradually risen. Beautiful girls in Seoul have started to show off their style little by little. Bae Suzy wore a coffee-colored knitted bat-wing top that revealed her left shoulder, and you could faintly see a black inner bra through the seams.

It's really pretty.

After the promotional period of "so" ended, the two met several times again due to joint activities. Not long ago, the other party left the peninsula because of Issa's overseas schedule and it is unknown when they will return.

The dining place is a high-end Western restaurant called nch. The interior decoration is simple yet sophisticated, with a large space and a good atmosphere. On the east side, there is a huge floor-to-ceiling window through which you can clearly see

This is Bae Suzy's residence, located in Seongtan-dong, Gangnam-gu. It's just a short walk from Line 2 Apgujeong Station Exit 4. It's very close to 'S' company, so close that you can even walk there in a few minutes without having to drive.

"Well, there are some things to consider... Their baked rice and several types of truffle pasta are really good, quite famous, you should try them. I've already ordered red wine myself."

Pei Suzy's right hand was resting on the table, propping up her face as she smiled and looked at Park Jeong-won across from her. After taking him in with a glance, she said with a slightly annoyed tone: "Jeong-won xi, you came out to eat with me dressed like this"

"Cream mushroom soup, and then this, uni-and-truffle spaghetti, and...ok that's it, thanks." Ji-seong pointed at the pictures on the menu a few times, and after finishing his order with the waiter, he turned to face Suzy. He first glanced down at his black co-branded casual hoodie, then gestured towards her, "Cool right I think it looks pretty good...and it's like a couple's color with yours."

"Besides, we're all so familiar with each other, there's no need for formalities after such a long time apart, right"

"Humph."

Pei Suzy glanced at the only black item on her body with a lingering gaze, gave him a sharp look and let out a cold snort, then picked up the highball glass and took a sip.

"Aren't you going on a concert tour And what about that Xia Guo person... when are they coming back"

Chi Jingyuan turned his head slightly and glanced through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the bustling neon-lit city scene outside. He casually asked,

According to JYP's public announcement, I.S.S.A. is currently on an Asian tour. It's said that they even went to China a couple of days ago to participate in a large-scale fanmeeting event.

"That's called 'Starry Summer Concert in China'...

"

Pei Suzy twitched the corner of her mouth: "That event was held for two days, on the 9th and 10th. I just got back from abroad yesterday morning."

"Asia tour canceled"

"...I guess we can't make it work..."

"What's wrong" Hearing this, Chi Jingyuan turned to look at her.

Last year during the song battle, he remembered seeing Suzy Bae promote this year's concert during an interview, so he had some impression.

I just haven't paid much attention to it before.

"Do you think everyone is like your EXO, with tens of thousands of tickets selling out in a second and fans constantly chanting for more shows"

Pei Suzy couldn't help but roll her eyes: "They call it an Asian tour, but so far they've only held two shows."

"The first show in Hong Kong, held in January, had very difficult ticket sales. Even with a venue capacity of several thousand, it was not filled. The company was dissatisfied as they felt it wouldn't be profitable and temporarily put the project on hold."

“Last month, we tried again to have a concert at the Mastercard Center in Shanghai. We put a lot of money into advertising, but the result was even worse than before. Not many people bought tickets, and the concert was a complete loss. None of us were feeling it anymore, so naturally, we couldn't keep going.”

When she mentioned the empty stadium, her expression wasn't pleasant. Apparently, the experience of organizing two concerts wasn't friendly for Suzy Bae's memories.

At this point, the waiter carried a tray and served each dish they had ordered to both of them. The table was quickly filled with a feast.

Apart from ordering a plate of spaghetti as her main course, Bae Suzy also ordered a whole bunch of side dishes, much more than what Park Kyung-won ordered.

But judging by her frame, she seems like someone who can eat a lot.

"Cheers." The two clinked their glasses lightly and began to eat, chatting as they went.

"I remember you guys' ISSA source scores were really good, your debut single won a Daesang award right away, and you all became a legend among our juniors..." Park Kyung-won took a bite of the spaghetti recommended by Suzy Bae and thought it tasted pretty good.

"What use is a light and sound source with good grades It's just a passerby, it can't attract fans, especially not those hardcore fans with strong purchasing power."

She sighed, put down her fork and looked at Chi Jingyuan: "You only know that our debut single won a big award, but do you know how many copies of that album sold"

First Evolution

"...Chi Jingyuan puffed out his cheeks and blinked at him."

“Less than fifteen thousand... That's the sales figure for a single that won the annual Song of the Year award. How ridiculous.”

Pei Xiuzhi let out a slightly sarcastic chuckle, shook her head and picked up the chopsticks again. She picked up a piece of fried shrimp and put it in her mouth, chewing as she continued, "After winning the award, the company took advantage of the momentum and released the second chapter single...

She puffed out her cheeks and looked over, mumbling, "Eight thousand."

“Without loyal fans and overseas popularity, tours won't get off the ground. The most significant source of income for an idol group would be gone...They can only rely on good national recognition to secure endorsements.”

“But we have definitely taken on a lot of endorsements and advertising….”

Pei Soo-ji seemed to be in high spirits, and she and Ji Kyeong-won chatted animatedly about various things related to them.

Before, every time we met, it was handsome guys and beautiful girls attracting each other based on their looks. It was purely because they looked good and had good eye contact. This time, there was a real sense of closeness with friends. We were naturally chatting and getting to know each other.

"By the way, how's the atmosphere within your group EXO" After taking a sip of red wine, Suzy 'Ha' breathed out and suddenly looked at Ji-yeong.

"Not bad." Chi Jingyuan pondered for a moment.

Except for occasional arguments and minor disagreements, the atmosphere within EXO is actually quite good. Although there are some underhanded tactics behind the scenes due to competition, at least on the surface, everyone gets along pretty well.

And some members also get along very well with Ji-won.

I saw your news and information about xo, you have such a big gap in popularity among your members, one person's fan count takes up almost one third. Is the atmosphere of your group still good Do others not mind, aren't they envious of you

Pei Xiu Zhi seemed disbelieving, her face full of doubt.

"Envy is definitely there, it's a normal human emotion."

"As for the rest, it's fine, at least it's okay for me."

Qi Jingyuan shrugged and took a sip of soup: “What, are you guys…”

"Hmm..." Bae Suzy gave a strange smile and shook her head. She looked up, pondering for a moment as if trying to find the right words to express herself. But after a few seconds, she gave up. "I don't know how to describe it... This way, there are many things I can say to you freely, but I can't say them to the members."

Chi Jingyuan nodded, he had also heard quite a few similar stories. When the popularity gap within a group is huge, it's easy to cause conflicts and estrangement.

After all, no one is a robot. They wouldn't be indifferent to seeing their group members constantly enjoying glamorous schedules while they themselves are stuck in the dorm doing nothing.

Neither does anyone like to be called someone's "dance partner".

When you're constantly being spoken about in this way by the outside world, even if your relationship was good before, over time there will inevitably be some strange thoughts in your heart.

Exo's popularity might seem uneven, but it remains relatively harmonious. This is because Kai has always been humble and never brags or shows off. More importantly, the members are all aware of his "royal" status, which manifests in both the company's attitude and treatment towards him. The gap is too significant, making envy almost impossible.

"You're so smart and have a high emotional quotient... " Chi Jingyuan looked at her, sincerely suggesting: "I think if you use these tactics you use on guys, or on me, with your teammates, the atmosphere of your team would be much better."

"Gosh, that sounds tiring."

Pei Suzy smiled and shook her head, looking meaningfully at Ji Kyoung-won: "And how do you know it will be useful There's no such thing as simplicity between girls, maybe there are some tricks I still learned from the members..."

"Haha…" Chi Jingyuan met her gaze and smiled happily, shaking his head.

The two of them were chatting animatedly, and the restaurant's food was indeed delicious. Time seemed to fly by as they enjoyed their meal. Before long, they were happily full after a satisfying dinner. After paying the bill, Bae Suzy took the initiative to speak:

"Looking for a CB"

"Cb" Chi Jingyuan was a little surprised.

Bae Suzy is also from 1994, according to the rules...

Because really not many people follow it.

Chi Jingyuan is also aware that in recent years, the peninsula itself has not been strictly managed, and most of the CB operators are in contact and colluding with local management departments, becoming even more rampant.

"It's still so early, the entertainment industry has already gone back to work these past two days... no, you wouldn't be going back to work again, would you You're coming back"

Bae Suzy frowned and stared at Ji Kyeong, her mind flashing back to a previous unpleasant memory.

Before that, when things didn't go well, she felt like she had been tricked by Chi Jingyuan and was a little unhappy. This time the date, everyone in their hearts understood, if they came again, it would be too much...

Upon hearing this, Chi Jingyuan chuckled and twitched his mouth.

"Lead the way."

……………………

The dazzling lights flickered like fireworks, constantly flashing and dimming, intermittently illuminating the dimly lit dance floor. For a moment, they brought the faces of those in the darkness into view, adding an inexplicable sense of mystery and allure.

The booming music constantly emanated from the speakers, reverberating throughout every corner of the CB. Along with the DJ's beats, it relentlessly ignited the crowd's emotions.

As it happens, the speakers are playing a very popular song called "Troublemaker" right now.

In an unassuming corner of the dance floor, Ji Chang Wook and Suzy held each other tightly, feeling the heat radiating from one another's bodies. They listened to the rhythm of their beating hearts and inhaled the intoxicating scent that lingered in the air.

This is a rather dead corner that's not illuminated by the colorful lights, and you can't make out someone's features easily unless you get up close.

Both of them were a bit heated emotionally, and in the fitting music, their bodies naturally didn't stop.

"Once again, I brushed past your lips and then turned away."

"trouaaaaabletroutroubleaker"

Both her figure and scent were just right, coupled with a hint of intoxication.

Following the music, they circled each other while slowly exploring, as if trying to mold the other into themselves.

Ji Jingyuan lowered his head and could smell the fresh shampoo scent on Pei Xiuzhi's smooth hair, as well as the expensive perfume smell, which he didn't know the brand of.

It might be because I just had some red wine, or maybe something else, but suddenly I feel a little tipsy.

After finishing their meal, Bae Suzy hailed a cab and brought him to this place. It's a nightclub called cbilk on Itaewon Road in the Yongsan District. She seems like she's been here before.

According to Suzy, she has been here several times before with her former JYP senior colleagues and staff, so she is quite familiar with it. The boss behind the scenes is also a well-known figure in the industry, so she feels more at ease. Many idol artists frequent this place, and some of her JYP colleagues often come here to relax.

It's similar to the store that Jin Hyo-yeon and some of her friends took him to when they were younger.

Idols, because of their profession, tend to prefer CBs opened by acquaintances or people within the industry. This is because it feels safer and more trustworthy when playing with people they know. They are also less worried about **being exposed**.

After they arrived, they opened a private room. After sitting for a while, Ji-Won was pulled down by Suzy Bae to the dance floor. They found a secluded corner and looked at each other. After a moment of feeling, they immediately hugged each other.

After a while, the dj suddenly changed to a more soothing song. The heat of their bodies also cooled down slightly.

You've been playing for a while, your hair is getting messy.

Chi Jingyuan lowered his head and met her eyes, giving a subtle glance. He then raised his chin towards the private room upstairs and asked if she wanted to go up.

Pei XiuZhi nodded, but didn't move first. Instead, she turned her back and carefully adjusted her clothes. She then smoothed down some messy strands of hair behind her ears before shaking her head, taking Chi JingYuan's hand and leaving the dance floor. They walked towards the private box upstairs.

"How do you feel" Bae Suzy looked at him with a smile.

They walked side by side, and the music from the second floor was quieter now. They could hear each other's words if they leaned in a little closer.

Which one do you mean

Chi Jingyuan smiled faintly: "Are you talking about this bar, or are you"

"Die..."

As expected, Bae Suzy playfully hit him, but she wasn't angry. Her flushed face was still smiling happily.

"The cocktails here are pretty good, let me get you one to try."

"You seem like a real pro, CB Queen Suzy"

"Well, I definitely don't count. I'm nowhere near that level. You haven't seen what 2NE1 is like on stage during CB…"

"Oh, I remember now, my unnie from Girls' Generation told me before, they said there's no stage they can't rock..."

The two chatted easily as they walked towards the private room upstairs. As they ascended, a tall figure suddenly appeared in front of them. He stopped after taking a few steps and saw Suzy Bae, then froze for a moment before finally confirming with his eyes. He took the initiative to greet her: "Suzy"

Hearing the shout, the two of them couldn't help but stop. Ji Jingyuan took a glance and felt that this man looked familiar. After taking a good look, Pei Xiuzhi recognized the person and blurted out his name: "Jun-ho oppa"

Ji Jingyuan remembered, this person was Li Junhao from 2p, and he had met him a few times in the future and greeted him.

"Haha, I see it just like you..."

Li Junhao beamed, his gaze shifting to Ji Kyung-won's face. He recognized him instantly and a look of surprise appeared on his face: "Hey! Jingyuan xi!"

"Hey, brother, Annyeonghaseyo," Chi Jingyuan greeted with a smile.

"Haha, it's so coincidental to meet you guys here at ilk today. I didn't expect that."

He glanced at Pei Suzy who was holding Chi Jingyuan's hand, a flash of understanding in his eyes. He didn't ask any questions, but instead patted Chi Jingyuan's shoulder amiably: "Is it Suzy who brought you here You guys from 'S' usually don't come to this kind of place."

"This is her turf," she said, and then Pool Jingyuan chuckled and jokingly added,

"Haha." Bae Suzy covered her mouth and laughed twice, glancing at him without refuting.

This isn't a place to talk. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, before taking their leave, Lee Jun-ho enthusiastically looked at the two and took the initiative to invite them: "Come to our private room when you have time. It's such a coincidence today that several friends met up. We can all have some fun together."

"Ji-a Besides oppa and the two of you, are there any other friends" Bae Suzy asked curiously.

I, Nikan and Pany, as well as BIGBANG's Taeyang, Victory, and their friends, also brought some trainees. They are all part of the industry.

"It was originally two private rooms, but since we all happened to be friends, we just decided to play together."

Lee Jun-ho gave a brief introduction and then made a joke: "I've always wanted to meet Jingyuan, and today it's such a coincidence that we met... And we are both predecessors in the music industry. It would be rude if you two didn't go sit together, haha."

"Well then, let's go over there later." Bae Suzy and Park Kyung-won exchanged glances, getting each other's signal after which they smiled and nodded in agreement.

After a simple nod of farewell, Ji-seong and Suzy walked a few steps back to their own dressing room. They felt the relaxed atmosphere inside was completely different from outside and let out a sigh of relief.

Ji-yeong sat on the sofa, watching Suzy approach with two cocktails from the liquor shelf beside her. He brought up their recent encounter: "He was really enthusiastic, weren't you and 2p close"

"Of course, you're not familiar with Girls' Generation"

"They're all from the same company, of course, we've been practicing together for so long, some even chased after me..."

Pei Suzy held out a glass of wine to him and pursed her lips, "But the enthusiasm is probably for you. After all, although I'm more familiar with them, we don't really hang out often. Only when it's just me, Jun Ho oppa definitely wouldn't call my name."

"How do you say it" After taking a sip of wine, the icy sweetness flooded his mind. Chi Jingyuan smacked his lips and nodded in confirmation: "The taste is not bad."

You said I was the queen of the nightclub just now, that's hilarious! I haven't been to CB that many times, and when I do go, it's just for the fun of it... Those guys who regularly go on 2P dates are the real CB princes.

Pei Soo-ji also took a sip, a wry smile playing on her lips: "A few years ago when their focus was still on the peninsula, they would definitely go to CB for a spin every night if they had time. They were total club kids. Back then, I wonder how many times Teacher Park Jin-young had to drag them back and scold them And how many times the company must have slapped 2P with the news."

"That sounds familiar." Chi Jingyuan suddenly felt like he had heard this before.

“And they play really wild, they like to take female fans with them to play, and the fans are all supporting them… Sometimes they also bring along trainees from their company, didn't you hear him just say he brought a trainee today too”

"...More familiar..." It wasn't just 2p, Ji Jingyuan always felt that several male groups he had heard people mention before were spoken of this way by Pei Xiu Zhi.

“Hmph…” She gave Chi Jingyuan a disdainful glance, apparently Pei Xiuzhi also included EXO in this category.

She snatched the wine glass from his hand and took a sip, tasting it before looking at him: "Are you going to go there later"

"It doesn't matter, he might forget about us soon anyway."

"Haha, maybe..."

…………

On the other side, Lee Jun Ho and his group’s private room was noticeably much larger. A dozen or so people were scattered on the circular sofa, their chatter, clinking of glasses, and girls' giggles echoing non-stop, creating quite a lively atmosphere.

On the right side of the circular sofa, three young girls were sitting huddled together, as if seeking warmth. They weren't engaging in any of the other people's entertainment and seemed uncomfortable, quite out of place with the atmosphere of the entire room.

At this time, Li Junhao, who had just gone out for something, pushed the door open and walked in.

This novel is first published on the Traditional Chinese Novels Network. understood by someone, especially when that person is him.Just as her thoughts were swirling with emotion, poised to pour out some heartfelt and tender words, she was interrupted by a casual "How was...