THE BLIND DATE

Prologue

That night, Dara found herself unable to sleep. She can feel her chest burning. It must’ve been from too much eating but she ruled out the very thought. It felt more psychological since she’s the type of person who’s hoarding on food.

She pushed herself up and turned on her bedside lamp; its dim effect made the atmosphere a little dramatic.

The clock read 12 AM, a little odd that she’s still awake at that hour when she feels so tired after the day’s activities. Could it be because her dreaded day has finally come? She rested her arm against her forehead while looking at the lush finish of her painted ceiling.

Right then and there, she contemplated deep – deep enough that she could almost drown herself with thoughts. For tomorrow is not just another day but the day she wished would never come.

She looked at her calendar the longest time she has possibly done her life. She focused on the encircled date with a red marker.

As a sign of surrender, she ruffled her wavy locks and released a helpless groan.

“This blind date… Will I go or not?” She began talking to herself and shuffling her hands hard.

“Who might this person be?” Her right hand clutched her chest, her heart pounding ecstatically. She doesn’t understand why she was feeling anxious in the first place and how she hated being set up on blind dates.

“Dam* it, Seungri!” A curse escaped from her lips. Curses, for her, were taboo but find it inevitable to speak.

“You’ll be punished hard. I swear you’ll learn and get it from me.” Now her head was preoccupied with thoughts of punishment to the sole culprit of her impending doom. She must deal with him after everything is settled. Sorry Seungri, Dara-noona will never be easy on you again.

“The more that I think of it… Boy, this is making me crazy!” She sighed.

After too much thinking, Dara suddenly felt very sleepy. Crumpled papers were all over her bed. Not minding the mess, she lazily put off her bedside lamp and drifted to dreamland.

Chapter 1

Seungri was chilling out in one of YG building’s lounges, browsing the internet, when he came across one article. It was an interview of their beloved maknae 2NE1 but he wasn’t amused by the way his favorite noona answered the questions, particularly one, which made his forehead crease deeply.

(ARTICLE here)

“Tsk, tsk…” He shook his head in disagreement. What a disaster!

“My faithful and favorite student of Seungri Academy, Dara-noona, has just put her dating chances in peril. Now, the whole world knows of the death of her dating genes.” He sighed.

He sprawled back on the couch he was sitting and thought of a plan.

He held his chin with his forefinger and thumb. “Pitiful. Looks like this situation calls for Master Seungri’s expertise in dating!” Don’t worry, noona, I’ll be here for your rescue.

He, then, imagines himself in a superman costume with his hands on his hips and laughing like a mad man.

By afternoon, on his free time, Seungri went straight to YG building’s internet cafeteria and started searching for ways on how his Dara-noona get to date the opposite sex.

After a while, he was able to create a list. Noona will be able to regain her pride and her fanboys! Bwahahaha!

He grinned proudly on his work. “Now, off to sorting them out.”

LIST ON HOW TO GET DARA-NOONA A DATE

1. Post anonymous dating ads on newspapers.

“A newspaper ad is more affordable than a TV ad.” He nods.

“However, the process could be bloody.” His face cracked up with dismay.

He scratches his head. “Also, with Big Bang’s schedule, I think I could barely entertain applicants.” With that, he marks the option with an X.

2. Introduce her to my friends.

He began browsing his phonebook. “I’ve introduced her to some of my guy friends but she seems to shy towards them.”

He paused and his gaze roamed throughout the room.

“Now that I think of it, my guy friends are too young for her taste. Hmm...” He hummed. “...and majority of my friends are females.” I don’t think she would like to date women. “Just thinking of her going gay gives me the creeps!” He gives off a shudder. Another option he puts an X to.

3. Let her attend social gatherings and parties of artists.

“Wait…” His eyebrows slowly meeting. “...2NE1 only attends YG Family events and YG-sajangnim would be too strict in choosing events for the girls.”

He closed his eyes and tried to rationalize. “Their comeback is fast-approaching. They’ll be too busy for the preparations. Social life is sacrificed at the moment.” Poor girls and I guess this is a no-no.

4. Let her get casted in a reality TV show, i.e. We Got Married.

His eyes popped out from its sockets. “Wow. Why did I ever come up with this option?” He has limited connections with MBC to actualize this ideal project.

“Besides, YG-sajangnim isn’t the type to be aggressive in accepting this kind of exposure for his artists.” He scratches his head again.

“I’d rather reserve this for future purposes.” He lets out a sigh for the nth time.

5. Create a fake account in an online dating site.

He crossed his arms on his chest. “Down to the last option...” He breathed deeply. “Dara-noona was sure to dominate Me2day, why not a dating website?”

He gave a lopsided smile thinking of this brilliant plan.

He didn’t expect it would be way too easy. The worldwide web is such a wonderful blessing! In no time, she’ll be thanking me for being genius.

He puts his hands together and rubs them. “Dara-noona, I’ll find you a perfect mate soon.” In his mind, he was laughing out loud. I’m so amazing!

Seungri didn’t waste his time. He was so eager to work on his magic at once! He searched for Korea’s most popular online dating site and immediately registered. His plan is materializing before him. “The fun starts now!” He can’t wait to see his favorite noona’s reaction once she finds out.

Welcome to I-Date Website! Your account has been verified and activated. You may now enjoy meeting up to more than 10 million subscribers online! We are looking forward that you’ll be able to meet your “right one!” Thank you very much for joining!

Yours truly, Admin The next day, Seungri started updating the site with information, pictures, and the like. That’s to make it more believable. Earlier, in their photoshoot, he gathered the courage to ask his favorite noona for a shot of the two of them, which she gladly did to his relief. Sorry, noona, but I’m doing this for you...kekeke

(PICTURE here)

Seungri-sunbaenim to my rescue~ ^0^ Although embarrassing, he wanted to help me with my dating skills!!! ㅋㅋㅋ Will I do good this time??? I hope so..+.+ I-Date here I come!!! I want to have a boyfriend soon~ Getting senti again.. Ya ya ya~ Dara, hwaiting!!! ㅋㅋㅋㅋ

Feeling his nape and shoulders ache, Seungri rolled his head back in forth to stretch his tired muscles. “What a day! I think this is all for today.”

He double-checked all his inputs and was very much satisfied before logging off the site. “In days time, I’m sure men will flock and take interest on this account.”

He felt sleepy and yawned. “Sweet dreams, genius! Tomorrow will be a long day.”

He jumped, literally, towards his bed and slept soundly with a smile of content plastered on his face.

Chapter 2

Two months ago...

After finishing a fashion photo shoot, Kim Jaejoong excused himself first after reading the text coming from someone special. The text read that the person wanted to meet him at an exclusive café on the outskirts of Seoul City. It would be best that way to not cause a commotion and get caught by paparazzi.

Jaejoong also chose to use a get–away car that fans aren’t familiar of. He drove by himself for almost an hour. As he was getting close, he couldn’t contain his excitement and was smiling like a Cheshire cat. This is the day – the day for her to decide our destiny!

“What took you so long?” An irritated greeting welcomed him.

She purposely avoided the kiss on the cheek he was about to give. “I have been waiting for almost three hours, Jae!”

This caught him off-guard. Ji Hye wasn’t usually like this.

“Mianhe! The photo shoot ended a bit late than expected. I drove my way here as fast as I could but got caught in traffic.” He reached out for her hand. “What can I do to make it up to you?” He lovingly looks at her face and flashes his teasing boyish grin.

Ji Hye’s gaze traveled from their intertwined hands to his eyes. “None.” She gave him a cold blank stare.

“Ha...ha...ha” An awkward laugh escaped from Jaejoong’s lips. “You’re just kidding me, right?”

He, then, scooped both of her hands and let them caress his cheeks. His facial expression turned serious and his eyes intense with emotion. “Saranghae, Ji Hye-ah,” he whispered.

A tear escaped her eye and then another. She forcefully pulled her hands away as if she felt disgusted. “No, Jae.” She shook her head and wiped her tears.

“It’s over. I don’t like you anymore. I’m in love somebody else. Mianhe.” She stood up and left.

Jaejoong’s head fell in defeat. He was staring at his palms that once held her beautiful hands. What did just happen? He couldn’t find in his mind the reason why.

“Sir, coffee?” A waiter asked him.

This awakened him from his trance. “Ah. Yes. Black coffee, please.”

“Okay, Sir, right away.” The waiter bowed and left to serve his order.

Kim Jaejoong was driving back to Seoul when his phone rang.

“Oh, Chun-ah~ Why did you call? Did you miss me already? Hahaha...” He said and faking a laugh.

“Babo, I don’t! Hahaha... Besides, we just saw each other a while back at the photo shoot. Wait, have you seen the news?” Park Yoochun casually asked him.

“Aniyo, I’m still driving back to Seoul. I’ll be home in half an hour.” He replied.

“Did you meet her?” His soulmate, on the other line, sounded astonished.

“Hmm... Neh. Wae?” His forehead creased and asked back confused.

“That woman got engaged last week. I couldn’t believe it myself and you’re still seeing her!” He exhaled noisily upon hearing it.

“Chun-ah, don’t worry. It’s over. I just ended my insanity of wanting her.” He inhaled deeply. “She confessed that she loves somebody else.”

Yoochun can’t help but get worried over his long time friend. “Are you okay? Want to drink it out?”

“I’ll take a pass, Chun-ah. I’d like to take some rest. It’s been a tough day.” “Arasso. I won’t persuade you any longer. Do rest well. Kkeuneulkke~” Then, the call ended.

His phone beeped once again. It was a text message from Kim Junsu – “Be strong! Everything will be okay. I’m just here when you need me.” Chongmal, are these two telepathic?

Although he had been upset of the unexpected turn of events, his two friends never fail him with their support. He gets a reason to smile, even for a while.

“Soon, I’d get over this broken state. Yes, you will Kim Jaejoong!” He convinced himself earnestly.

“In time, I’ll find someone better.” He repeats this statement like some mantra that’ll save his life.

However, at the end of the day, it can’t be denied he’s still heartbroken.

http://iherocassie.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/img00399-20110103-2313.jpg

Ah~melancholy! I feel it embracing me... It’s been a long while since I had time driving around town. I had time today to rest and reflect. I chose to leave the burden and carry on with a light heart. For tomorrow will be a new beginning, a reason to be happy. Good ㅋ^^

Kim Jaejoong, instead of sulking, busied himself to JYJ’s activities. It would be the best way to positively channel his depression and live normally. He’s determined to be optimistic especially regarding matters of the heart – love.

One night...

Jaejoong, left with nothing to do, browsed his Twitter account. He planned to post something but hasn’t decided what it’s all about. Hmm... What would interest my fans?

While he was thinking and conceptualizing, a pop-up window suddenly appeared on the screen. This made him raise his brow.

Before he could entirely close the window, the ad flashed a picture that sparked his curiosity. Omo!

Chapter 3

Ooh~ where was I? Ah, right. Keke.

After creating the fake account on I-Date, Seungri almost forgot about it with his busy schedule and work appointments. Exactly one week has passed and he hasn’t revisited the site yet. “Just my luck, we’re on vacation!” he snickered deviously to himself, avoiding suspicion.

Having the right timing, he’s moving a step closer to finding the perfect date for his favorite noona. I’m back in the game! Yeah, baby~

While he was busy with his thoughts, an arm crept to rest upon his shoulders. “Yah, maknae! I asked you what’ll you be up to this weekend?,” the almighty Kwon Jiyong interrupted.

“The way your eyes glisten, I bet you have something in mind.” Bigbang’s leader further teased, eyebrows moving upward and back.

“Hyung! Stop teasing, okay?,” he felt annoyed and jerked away from Jiyong’s hold. “I already have plans and it doesn’t include you.”

Seungri rose from his seat and walked towards the door. “Gentlemen, I have an important matter to attend to. So if you’ll excuse me, I’m going. Annyeong!” he bowed and left everyone in awe.

That night...

Seungri attempted to update the account anything related to Dara.

http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/3899/sandaraseungri3.jpg

Seungri-nim was very willing to accompany me to the gym... ㅋㅋ Aside from the dating etiquette session we had, he also wanted to improve my physical image. He’s even more strict that Ssabu-nim! Making sure that I’ll do the routines right... ㅋ.ㅋ So dedicated ~ Although tiring, working out together with the family was fun!!!

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/6030/sandaraseungri1.jpg

This was during our lecture about dating etiquette. Just look at Sunsengnim ~ Relaxed and very enthusiastic in teaching... ^.^ I’m so grateful to Sunbae-turned-Sunsengnim...!

He even updated his own Me2day account to his own liking – pertaining to dating skills.

http://ygfamilyartists.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/seungri-me2day-update.jpg Seungri’s Blind Date Company – I am going to introduce Seungri’s friends. I am introducing them so that VIPs can break away from the solo life.

Tags: blind date arrangement, important, Mr. Yeonyoung Hyun, 180cm, honey skin, comments jam

In the wee hours of the morning, he dozed off on his lazy chair. An hour or so, his pc buzzed loudly; indicating an incoming message.

He groaned noisily. “Urgh~ what was that?”

From: Kwon Jiyong, BigBang Leader

To: Lee Seung Hyun, Maknae Seungri

Oie, maknae~ Acting so cool now, huh? You surprised me.

Watch out once our vacation’s done! You’ll get it from me…bwahaha! >:))

“Pft. It’s as if I’m afraid of you, Kwon Leader~ Hahaha.” He laughed and replied to the IM.

From: Mighty Maknae of BigBang

To: Kwon Leader

:p *sticks out tongue* Then, come and get me! Hahaha.

Another message came to his surprise. He though it was from Jiyong, however, it blinked on the other minimized window -- the I-Date site.

From: Shin Jae Joon

To: 2NE1 Dara Park

I never thought you were this desperate.

Ara! You’re not getting any younger either!

A promise is a promise and I have never forgotten. Come and see me at Bum’s Story, 8 pm, next Saturday.

I’d be expecting! I’ll never take NO as an answer.

What was that? What was that! He was literally blown away.

“Is there some guy Dara–noona promised her love for?” BigBang’s Maknae was getting giddy as he read the message over and over again. Noona don’t you ever forget to thank me after this!

“I must’ve saved a nation in my past life to have found Noona’s lost love! I hope YG– sajangnim won’t mind my playing cupid just this once.” He said to himself.

He replied to the message with assurance.

From: 2NE1 Dara Park

To: Shin Jae Joon

Thank you for keeping the promise ^.^

Don’t worry, I’ll be there. I can’t wait!

The next day...

Seungri was very excited to tell Dara the good news. 2NE1 was currently at the recording studio for their upcoming Japanese album when he barged in. He greeted everyone and even brought some snacks to everyone’s delight.

While everyone was busy eating and chatting, he suddenly announced the so-called good news.

He went to the center of the room and said out loud. “Dara–noona, guess what? I signed you up in an online dating website!”

Whatever everyone was doing came to a halt. They stared at the person at the center and then started laughing hard, seeing the announcement like some kind of joke.

“He…he…he… Hey, you guys! I’m serious.” Seungri pouted and looked like a cute little boy.

“Hahaha. Nice one, Seungri! That was really funny.” CL, 2NE1’s leader, went to him and pinched his cheek.

He got so disappointed with everyone’s reaction. His supposedly smiley face just turned grumpy. Nobody makes fun of Master Seungri’s brilliant idea! Particularly, CL’s comment made one of his brow raise up. “Yah~ I’m really serious! Who said I was joking?!” He crossed his arms on his chest and stomped his right foot.

“Sheesh, Seungri… You’re such a girl! Your mood swings come unpredictable.” Bom said, who was just beside him, and slapped his shoulder lightly.

In the midst of the awkward atmosphere, a person from the PR Department came in the studio and went directly to Dara.

The PR person looked flushed and worried. From the looks of him, it was something urgent and serious.

After the conversation, Dara bade the PR person goodbye and bowed. Faking a wave, she then faced Seungri with such fierce and intense gaze.

“Seungri–sshi could you tell me again what you did?” It was now Dara’s turn to raise a brow as she crossed her arms across her chest while tapping her right foot.

Seungri gulped gallons of his saliva before even mustering the guts to utter a single word. Oh, I’m so dead.

“I…” He felt his sweat form around his forehead.

“You what?” Dara’s voice roared and her eyes were close to popping out of its sockets.

“I… Isignedyouupinadatingwebsite.” These were the words that came out of his mouth.

Chapter 4

“I… Isignedyouupinadatingwebsite.” Seungri replied in one breath.

“Wae?” Dara asked with teeth clenched.

Gaining some courage, Seungri explained trying to meet his Noona’s deadly glare. “I… I just wanted to help you get a date since nobody has yet took courage to ask you out.”

He continued, his fingers fidgeting. “Also, I got worried with you admitting to the world that your dating genes have died.” Now, he wanted to cry.

Dara’s usual soft voice roared tremendously with anger. “Seriously, I’d never thought that someone like you would do such a stupid thing!”

“Don’t you know what happened after you signed me up to that ridiculous site?” She paced through the hallway and threw her hands mid-air.

“Of course, you wouldn’t! You were even so happy to tell it to me today!” She ended her statement sarcastically.

Seungri stood frozen, unable to speak. He kept his head down all the while Dara was talking. Inside him, he felt pressure like he’s at court sentenced to death. Heavens, save me! *sobs*