Chapter 53 No More Jokes

Impartial, each has its own.After the awards ceremony, EXO and all the artists bowed to each other before saying goodbye and leaving the venue with their managers.Tomorrow, most artists will fly back..."...Ah, you have no idea how agitated I was back then. I couldn't even show it, it really was..."

It's making me kind of scared to get married...

Just out of the shower with damp hair, he changed into his pajamas and walked out of the bedroom. At this moment, besides those who were showering and talking on the phone with their girlfriend, the other EXO members were in the living room watching TV and chatting. Before Ji-young even reached the living room, he heard Park Chan-yeol's exaggerated complaints.

"Is it really that exaggerated"

"You'll know once you go there yourself. This "Superman is Back" episode that aired has been heavily edited. Every child looked adorable on the broadcast, but it wasn't like that during filming. Those kids weren't happy and wouldn't cooperate at all, crying and causing a fuss, making it impossible for the crew to say anything. It was really troublesome."

"I actually think it's alright, aren't kids like that" Bian Berhyen said, voicing his dissent while munching on a cookie, his voice slightly muffled.

After seeing Chi Jingyuan walk over, he even proactively handed him one, shifted his butt two steps to the right, and made space on the sofa.

As soon as he heard it, Ji Jingyuan knew what the two of them were talking about. Park Chan-wook and Byun Baek-hyun participated in the recording of the parenting reality show "Superman Returns" today. The former probably received some stimulation during the recording and is now complaining bitterly, while the latter seems happy and cheerful, looking very much like he enjoys children.

Pool Jingyuan took a cookie and bit into it, then sat down on the sofa. Before he could even see what was playing on TV, he was called out.

“Then you should get married quickly and have a child to raise yourself…” Park Chan-yeol was retorted by Byun Baekhyun, making him retort angrily. Then, seeing Ji Sung-won sitting down, his eyes lit up as he looked over: "Ji Sung-won ah, how did that JYP variety show you recorded today feel"

Although no one would openly announce which case they had received, everyone was generally aware of each other's personal schedules. Before going to film JYP's trainee program, Park Jiung caused quite a stir among XO fans. Many wondered how he had been invited in the first place.

"That's great, the recording went smoothly." Ji Jingyuan mumbled while chewing on a cookie and blinking his eyes in response, his gaze like that of an innocent child.

A few guys beside me immediately gave me a look of contempt: "What are you pretending for Who asked you this Didn't it say that it was a girl group audition from JYP So the participants must be the most outstanding trainees in the company, right What do you think of the quality of JYP's people Are they pretty or not"

This group of people are not at all interested in whether or not his recording went smoothly. What the male idol is naturally interested in are female idols, or failing that, trainees.

"Oh, right." Park Chan-ryeol tilted his head as if remembering something, then looked at Ji Kyeong-won: "Are there any trainees from China in the practice recording"

"It's alright." Ji Jingyuan reminisced about the fifteen trainees he had seen during today's recording, including Zhou Tzuyu, there were indeed a few who stood out. However, he didn't want to say much and just casually replied with a perfunctory sentence, then nodded at Park Chan-wook who was asking the question: "Yes."

He knew what the other person meant. Out of all the members of EXO, only Park Chanyeol had met Tzuyu, and in their mind, they probably thought that the relationship between Ji-sung and Tzuyu was more than ordinary.

"Huh, I said how did you end up recording this…" He immediately understood, grinning at Chi Jingyuan and raising an eyebrow as if to say, 'Good brother, I get you.' And Chi Jingyuan shrugged, neither admitting nor denying.

"What does that mean" Wu Shixun felt a tickle of curiosity from the two people's riddle, and he asked curiously left and right. However, after being ignored directly, he rolled his eyes in displeasure.

"How many copies of 《X》 have been sold I haven't checked in the past two days."

“The last time I checked, it was over 500,000. It’s about that number and hasn’t increased much anymore. It has dropped quite a bit compared to 《E》…”

"It should go back to normal."

"Big Bang's concert in two days, want to go The Seoul show on the 25th, it's said to be very popular."

"Don't joke around, fans are already at each other's throats and fighting all the time. If you get caught on camera at a concert, they won't even consider you a traitor We fans don't even have the courage to argue anymore..."

"By the way, episode 5 of "My Neighbor is EXO" aired today, have you watched it"

If EXO gets back to the dorm early after work, they usually gather in the living room to watch TV and chat. They can talk about anything. Sometimes they also order some late-night snacks to share, making a lot of noise and having a great time.

As soon as this last sentence was brought up, the atmosphere suddenly became eerily silent.

My Neighbor is EXO was well-received by fans after it was released online, as expected. However, ordinary viewers were unimpressed with this fan-service type of TV drama and gave it negative reviews.

Even EXO themselves, after watching the first two episodes, didn't really want to watch anymore.

Seeing that the conversation was stalling, Kim Jun-myeon hastily steered it in a different direction with a somewhat awkward change of subject: “Tomorrow at noon we're attending the opening ceremony for naturerepublic's flagship store in Myeongdong, right I heard there’s a new neon cuisine restaurant near there that's pretty good. Want to go try it after”

"That's right."

"OK, I love Japanese food."

"Jǐngyuán, what about you"

"Me I probably won't be able to make it to that opening ceremony tomorrow."

"What's wrong"

I ate a bit too many cookies. Chi Jingyuan drank some water: "I just took on a case today, the fixed MC for . Although the contract hasn't been officially signed yet, I just got notified that because time is tight, I have to go to a meeting tomorrow."

"Fixed MC, you"

This sudden news immediately piqued the curiosity of several people around. They first looked at him in surprise, then started asking questions in a flurry. Chi Jingyuan was unable to answer them all and gave a simple explanation of what had happened.

"Partnering with a female idol from within the company, huh It couldn't be..." Hearing those last words, Park Chan-ryeol and the others were stunned. They all thought of the same name and stared at Ji Kyeong-won in disbelief.

Surrounded by gazes, Qi Jingyuan casually lowered his mouth, his gaze shifting to the television above. He shrugged and remained silent, but his expression and movements already provided an answer.

"Jinja"

"Damn it..."

"Really, it's Pei Joo-hyuk Ugh, you two Meeting up every week like this, isn't this a subsidized romance"

Even though there were some premonitions, the answer still caused an uproar. Although EXO members didn't know if the two were actually dating, they generally understood that their relationship was unusual and excessively intimate. After learning that these two would be co-hosting Music Bank together, everyone was surprised and some were even resentful. Especially those members who were already dating or flirting with other female idols, their tone revealed a mixture of envy and sourness.

"Love funded by the government That's impossible, it hasn't gotten to that level."

Chi Jingyuan smiled and waved his hand, refuting the claim with righteous indignation: "It's all for work, for the promotion of our XO's imminent comeback..."

He hadn't finished speaking before he was interrupted. For a moment, the entire living room was filled with growls of displeasure and jealousy:

"Damn it, I want subsidized love too!"

…………

"...The style of hosting will undergo a change, starting with your generation. It will no longer be in the mode of collaborators, but rather as close friends who are above being just friends. Additionally, our writers will create and script appropriate conversational interactions, which you will showcase during the program's intermission segments..."

"...To put it simply, it's a form of loveline hype common in variety shows. However, unlike those programs that are too direct, we take your profession and fan base into consideration. Therefore, there won't be any overly intimate contact or ambiguous dialogue during the hosting process. It's best to convey closeness through eye contact and interactions..."

In the meeting room of the 'Music Bank' program crew on the third floor of KBS building, director PD Han Kyung-cheol is passionately explaining the program's requirements and the MC hosting style change. Besides the program's main creators, the two confirmed rookie fixed MCs, Ji-seong Choi and Irene Bae, and their agents are all present, attentively listening while taking notes.

Han Kyung-cheol is over forty years old, of average height. He wears black-rimmed glasses that, coupled with his small eyes, give him a rather serious look. He has been the director of Music Bank since the year before last and is considered quite experienced in the field.

He spoke for a while, glancing at Ji-seong, who had recently been confirmed as the fixed MC, then his gaze swept back and forth between him and Seulgi, who was sitting beside him.

The poolside scene with Park Ji-hyun in a coat and shirt, and the refined ponytail of Kim Jennie, just sitting there looking at them is eye-catching.

He nodded in satisfaction, then continued:

“This kind of interaction that doesn't feel off-putting, can attract passersby's attention and create a sense of immersion, is a relatively high-level and close interaction which puts high demands on the MC's control ability. Besides the script provided by the writer, it also tests the level of tacit understanding between you. Especially for MC's appearance, there are very high requirements...Simply put, you just have to be good-looking. At first glance, standing together should look very well-matched and make people feel good. Yuanxi and Irenexi especially meet our requirements.”

"Indeed..."

"It's rare to see this kind of appearance in an idol."

Several staff members nearby looked at the two people sitting together on the left side of the conference table and nodded in agreement.

"Thank you," Bae Joohyun said, appearing a little flustered by the praise. She quickly bowed her head slightly in thanks.

To be honest, she hasn't received many personal resources since her debut. Now that she's leaving the team and working on her own production meeting, she's actually quite nervous. From the start, she's been sitting upright and meticulously recording everything the PD said, which reveals her nervousness.

Especially when the other partner sat beside her, so close, it was even more pronounced.

"Congratulations."

Unlike the rookie, Jeon Somi, who looked quite nervous, Ji Chang Wook seemed very relaxed having been to such events before. He first politely thanked everyone, then with a smile, made a joke: "PDnim's requirements, Irene probably won't have any problems with, I think it just lacks something."

"Hahaha..." Han Kyung-cheol and the others chuckled softly at this, and the atmosphere in the meeting room became a bit more relaxed.

As the director of Music Bank, he has a good impression of Ji Chang Wook. Besides being a suitable candidate, the program team placed their hopes for increasing viewership on him. He also heard some things about the young man from a senior who went to the same school as him.

"...The contract has almost been finalized, and it should be signed today. Junseo xi and Bora xi have already confirmed that they will leave after the 24th episode, so your official start date will be the May 1st episode... Speaking of which, your XO comeback is also on that day, right The debut stage just happens to be our 'Music Bank'. What a coincidence."

After discussing several other matters, the meeting was nearing its end. Han Kyung-cheol finally began to summarize: "We only have less than ten days left, which is quite tight... Also, for the newcomer MC's declaration stage, we decided to use the song 'One and a Half.' For specific parts that need to be adapted and how they connect with the stage, please prepare them within these few days. Conveniently, both MCs are from the same company, so practicing together should be easier."

"Got it,"

"Kongsanda..."

…………

Because of this fixed MC schedule, the company cleared up both days for Ji-sung. Fortunately, during this period EXO itself was focusing on concert rehearsals, comeback stage preparation and album production, so there were not many public schedules to adjust.

Pei Zhuxuan's side should also be about the same. Although 《icecreamcake》 is still charting, its heat has already diminished a lot, and the corresponding promotional activities have also been reduced.

After returning from KBS, under the company's arrangement, Ji-sung went straight to discuss the adaptation and effects of the MC declaration stage "One and a Half" with the dance teacher.

"

The song "Yi He Er Fen Yi" (One and a Half) is a classic track released in 1994 by the Taiwanese vocal group twotwo. The lyrics revolve around the phrase "because you took half of me, so you can become two people," narrating the process of friendship or romantic love blossoming from strangers to close companions. It's a warm and sweet song that has been frequently featured in variety shows or covered by idol artists since its release, making it a well-known track.

"

It's a pity that this mixed vocal group debuted in 1994 and disbanded in 1996. What's even more unfortunate is that their lead singer, Kim Ji-hun, passed away in 2013 due to depression.

The original arrangement is already very good, so there's no need for too many changes. At most, you could add a few chords or drum beats. You also don't need too much choreography; the main focus should be on designing the movements and interactions between the male and female MCs on stage.

Since we need to follow the show's style requirements, some interactions will have to be a little more pink.

This adaptation wasn't difficult, and after several hours of work, it was completed. After notifying Park Soo-Hyun's manager, both parties began practicing.

"When she made her entrance, Irene's hand rested on Jingyuan's, with a nonchalant air... Well, that's exactly how it was."

Since they were colleagues who frequently met and collaborated, there weren't many formalities. When Ji-seong and Joo-hyuk arrived, the dance instructor briefly said a few words before starting to teach them the newly choreographed stage sequence.

The first opening move required physical contact. The teacher originally thought that Park Ji-hyun would be a little uncomfortable, so she specifically spoke to reassure him. Unexpectedly, before her words even finished, she saw Park Ji-hyun directly reach out and put his hand on Ji Kyeongwon's arm, linking their arms together.

Her expression was very natural, as if this were a normal action and contact. After putting it on, she looked at the teacher, her big eyes blinking as if waiting for the next move.

Seeing this, the dance teacher couldn't help but pause, her gaze swept across the two faces before she pursed her lips and said, "Well, that's good. But Irene, remember to wear high heels on stage."

Although Bae Suzy is not tall, she prefers flat shoes in her daily life. Of course, she wouldn't wear high heels during practice, so when the two stand side by side, the height difference is quite noticeable.

As soon as he said that, Ji Jingyuan acutely sensed that Pei Zhuxuan's grip on his hand tightened. He smiled inwardly, but his face remained unchanged, as if he hadn't heard anything.

"...Looking at this centerline, take two steps forward and face each other here, then move apart to the sides and wave to each other..."

"The end of the chorus, standing with your hips akimbo, leaning your upper bodies close together, yeah, that's it!"

"At the ending, Irene takes Jingyuan's hand and spins in place once, doing a move similar to a Latin dance..."

"You've all seen the original stage performance. Actually, the movements are only slightly changed in the chorus. There aren't really any complicated choreographies; they're all very simple moves with a low difficulty level. The emphasis is still on your eye contact and interactions with each other…"

These interactions aren't actually stiff, they mainly aim to convey a feeling of sweetness and intimacy. If there's chemistry, it can lead to even better improvisation in the moment.

After working hard for half a day, looking at the two people in front of them who were sweating and starting to pant slightly, the dance teacher nodded, looked at their faces, and recalled the practice process, she couldn't help but sigh: "I think you two have really good chemistry. Some impromptu interactions during the formal performance might be even better than what we choreographed."

"Take a break..."

The dance teacher clapped her hands, and she and Ji-yeong exchanged glances before announcing a break. Bae Joo-hyun glanced at Ji-yeong after which she walked out of the room, possibly to the restroom. Meanwhile, Ji-yeong went to the small fridge beside them, grabbed a bottle of drink, and walked to a corner where he sat down. He took out his phone and started browsing aimlessly.

After a few minutes, the sound of a door being pushed open came, but he didn't even raise his head to look. The sound of footsteps approached from afar. Pei Zhuxuan walked over with a bottle of mineral water and sat down about one meter away from Chi Jingyuan. She glanced at him and then twisted the cap to take a sip.

When I met him at the KBS meeting this morning, we just exchanged a few glances and didn't really talk. After returning to the company, I've been busy ever since. Speaking of which, this is actually our first private interaction and communication since we both confirmed our roles as fixed MCs for "Music Bank."

"By the way, you, how did you take on this case"

Suddenly, a soft voice came, pulling Chi Jingyuan's attention away from the black EXO post he was engrossed in. He couldn't help but turn his head to look over.

Peo Ju-hyeon's light-colored tight long-sleeved top paired with sportswear and white sneakers, her long hair tied into a bun at the back of her head, with some playful strands of air bangs drooping on both sides of her forehead. They sway with her movements, very lively.

Although she took the initiative to speak, at this moment she was earnestly looking at the bottle of mineral water in her hand. Her focused expression seemed to be studying the exact formula used in producing this particular brand of water. She didn't turn her head until she felt Chi Jingyuan's gaze upon her. Then she turned, blinked, and met his gaze with curious eyes, seeming truly unaware of the reason behind it.

“……”

Seeing her expression, Chi Jingyuan felt speechless. She was acting like a little white rabbit, and while she did it well, he didn't believe for a second that she didn't know why he took this fixed MC gig.

But seeing Pei Zhuhyun's serious act, Ji Jingyuan refused to cooperate. After pondering for two seconds, he replied in a very serious tone: "You mean this MC It's mainly because the company considers our EXO, because this program has good exposure and we need more publicity for our next comeback."

"Also because the program team is quite optimistic about me and very sincere..."

"Maybe they want me to get some exercise, and in the future, I might develop more in the direction of variety shows..."

"By the way, I think it's also possible..."

As he uttered one justification after another in an official tone, the expression on Bae Joo-hyun's face drooped considerably as she still didn't hear the words she wanted to. The sparkle in her eyes that had been present just moments ago when she was putting on a show had also diminished.

The last reason is... you.

Seeing the other party's slight wrinkle of their nose, it was clear they were displeased. Ji Jingyuan smiled inwardly and didn't bother playing games anymore. He said it directly and leaned against the wall languidly, watching the other party with a frown and said in an unamused tone: "No, Joo Hyuk xi, what are you pretending You really don't know"

"...hahahaha."

Finally, she heard the answer she had always wanted to hear. Bae Joo-hyun puffed up her cheeks, trying her best to contain herself, but after a few seconds, she couldn't resist the joy bubbling inside and giggled out loud. A pleasant atmosphere enveloped the two of them, surrounding them completely. Even with her hand covering her mouth, it was impossible to hide her happiness. Not even when Park Kyung-won gave her a look of disdain did it bother her in the slightest.

Of course, she knew in her heart why Chi Jingyuan had come. Even the moment Quan Huiying hung up the phone and told her, she knew the reason.

But I just wanted to hear it come from his own lips.

"This doesn't even look like… Stop laughing, it sounds awful… Put that down!"

"Hee hee hee…"

…………

Just as Pool Jingyuan was preparing for both MC's stage and EXO's comeback and concert, on April 24th, a string of hot news emerged starting in the morning. The first to hit was ** and YG successively releasing promotional photos for EXO and BIGBANG's comebacks, simultaneously announcing their debut stage dates.

Two announcements came one after the other, appearing as if the latter was waiting specifically for the former, making the rivalry between them very obvious.

(End of Chapter)

First published on the Traditional Chinese Novels Networkited.Chi Jingyuan, surrounded by onlookers like pandas, smiled in response to them. He waited for about ten minutes before buying 3 'Yuanzu Guazi Tangbing' that looked delicious.After he packed up the...