Chapter 37 (TW)

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TRIGGER WARNING: This chapter contains sensitive content related to gunshot and blood.




The atmosphere in the living room grew heavy as Minha gathered the members together.

Chaewon, noticing Minha’s distant expression, couldn’t help but ask, “What’s the matter, unnie?”

Minha smiled weakly, acknowledging that she had a lot on her mind. She looked at each member, appreciating their presence and support. Taking a deep breath, Minha addressed the group, capturing their attention. “Girls,” she began, her voice steady but filled with concern. “I met with Bang PD today, and he informed me about our safety in light of the ShinAe issue.”

The mention of ShinAe’s name sent a shiver down Eunchae’s spine, the memories of their previous encounters still fresh in her mind.

“I thought it was over,” Minha responded, her voice tinged with disappointment. “But unfortunately, she never gives up. Remember the incident in Jeju? Someone followed us?” Minha pulled out printed photos from her pocket, revealing a man who had been suspiciously watching them from a distance.

Yunjin chimed in, recalling their encounter with the same man during their zipline adventure, startling Minha momentarily.

After a moment to compose herself, Minha continued. “This man has been following us because ShinAe paid him to keep an eye on us, possibly to update her on our daily schedules,” Minha explained, her expression growing more serious.

The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on the members’ faces as they realized the severity of the issue.

Minha shared the news that Bang PD would be implementing stricter rules and increasing the number of bodyguards and security personnel, starting the next day, until HYBE could confirm that ShinAe would cease her surveillance. Minha’s stress was palpable, evident in her face and demeanor.

Chaewon reached out and rubbed her leader’s shoulder in a comforting gesture.

Minha looked down, closing her eyes, feeling the weight of the responsibility she carried as the group’s leader.

Kazuha couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt, knowing that her own struggles with the recurring nightmares were adding to Minha’s stress. “Unnie, as much as you’re worried about us, I want you to know that we’re here to do the same for you,” Kazuha spoke up, her voice filled with sincerity.

“You’ve taken good care of us since the beginning, and we’re grateful for that. Please don’t shoulder all the stress alone. We believe that HYBE will do everything in their power to ensure our safety.” Sakura chimed in, offering her support and reassurance, her smile providing a sense of comfort.

Minha’s anger simmered beneath the surface as she contemplated ShinAe’s audacity to seek revenge despite the harm she had caused Eunchae and Kazuha. “Let’s stick together for now,” Minha suggested, her tone laced with determination. “We have a run-through for the concert tomorrow, and an early morning flight. Take care of your health and safety, and let me know if you have any problems. That’s it for today.” Minha smiled, but the brightness of her usual smile was dimmed by the weight of the situation. She excused herself and retreated to her room.

Yunjin pouted, expressing her frustration after Minha closed the door. “To be honest, I hate seeing unnie in serious mode like that. And I hate even more that we have to face this issue again,” she sighed, her frustration evident.

Kazuha, feeling the need to support her girlfriend, stood up from her seat and walked towards their room, intending to provide comfort and help Minha calm down from her anger.

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