IZ*ONE University [THE REWRITE]

Chapter 1: Don't forget the rose that is standing here

Kwon Eunbi's POV

"Are you going to be alright, Eunbi?" my mom asked, concern etched on her face.

"Yes, ma!" I replied immediately, wanting to ease her worries, especially with everything we faced after Dad left. I could see the strain in her eyes, making my heart ache.

"I'm so sorry, sweetie. If only I were good enough—"

"Mom, you are more than enough for me! You don't have to carry that burden—I want you to focus on yourself. We're strong women who can support each other!" I said, trying to reassure her. I had always done my best to be strong, not just for myself but for her too. The Kwon women don't give up easily, despite life's challenges.

"I'm so happy to have such a wonderful and strong daughter," my mom said, her voice trembling as she kissed my forehead. I could see how much she was trying to hold it together, and it made me wish I could take her pain away. With a gentle wave, she said goodbye, and I could feel her worries linger in the air.

Once I was alone again, I couldn't shake off the weight of my parents' high expectations. As businesspeople, they always wanted me to pursue a similar path. But deep down, my passion lay in being a leader and an honest politician. I dreamed of guiding others in the right direction, aspiring to be the best leader in Seoul, Korea. Yet, I understood that every great journey starts small.

Before school began, I decided to gather the girls for a vacation. I knew I'd be busy with the student council since I became President after Jihyo-unnie graduated last May. I didn't want to let her down or disappoint anyone; they all depended on me to create a supportive environment.

(A/N: Let's all pretend that TWICE is older than Eunbi.)

Since school starts next month, I chose to meet at Chaewon's house. Honestly, I didn't feel like cleaning my place after they left, and Chaewon was like family; I had known her since middle school. My dad had worked for the Kim Group for a long time, and I felt a protective bond over her—a bond I cherished deeply.

FLASHBACK

"Make it stop... please make it stop..."

I could only watch as Chaewon poured her heart out. For the first time, I witnessed the real Chaewon—broken and vulnerable. It hit me hard; she was bearing her burdens in silence, just like my mom.

END OF FLASHBACK

As I hoped for quieter days ahead, I reflected on how chaotic our student council room had become. Nayeon-unnie and Sana-unnie often dropped by, and while I wouldn't mind having a girlfriend visit—if I had one—Kwangbae still couldn't grasp my feelings. She was always busy laughing and playing games with Yena. I wished she could see how her kindness drew others in. To me, she was perfect.

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IZ*ONE's Chaotic Students Chat

KwonCeleb: @GamerKKura, @Kwangbae, @Ducky, @FeatherChae, @Ssamu, @Minguri, @Nabuki, @Pangtomi, @Joyul, @Doggo, @GiantMaknae

FeatherChae: Yes?

Doggo: Yo!

Ssamu: Sup

Ducky: Yes, baby?

Joyul: She's not your baby...

GiantMaknae: I feel single...

GamerKKura: Aren't you and Yujin dating?

GiantMaknae: NO!

Joyul: Omo omo! She's blushing here!