Finally, Aera was able to bring her father home from the hospital. She had planned to settle him into her late grandmother's house. The end of the competition was near, and as soon as it was over, she would return to stay with him.
But sometimes life didn't follow plans.
When she arrived at the house, there was another woman in her father's room. The two of them were laughing and chatting comfortably. But the moment they saw her, they fell silent.
"Aera, sweetheart—welcome!" her father greeted.
"Hello. I hope I'm not interrupting anything."
Her gaze shifted curiously to the woman beside him.
"Let me introduce you," her father said. "This is Haeyoung. She's a dear friend of mine. I've been meaning to introduce you, but things kept getting in the way. You'll really like her, I'm sure—she's always wanted to meet you."
The woman smiled warmly and pulled Aera into a hug. Aera didn't know how to react—she was still processing the situation.
"Your father talks about you all the time. I couldn't wait to meet you. You're even more beautiful than he described."
She seemed genuinely kind. Too kind. Aera didn't know what to say.
"Are you two... dating?"
"What? No, sweetheart," her father said quickly. "Dating? We're too old for that."
Haeyoung, on the other hand, burst out laughing.
"Why not? I still feel young. Maybe I should start calling him oppa. What do you think, oppa?"
Her father's face turned beet red in embarrassment, while Haeyoung giggled even harder.Unlike Aera's late mother, this woman was lighthearted—and surprisingly, Aera found herself liking that.
"I was one of your biggest supporters during the show, by the way," Haeyoung added enthusiastically. "I would've joined the cheering crowd if I hadn't been here with your dad. But now that he's better, maybe we can come to the finale with banners and everything! I'm so excited!"
She kept talking nonstop, telling stories and ideas, while her father watched her with a sparkle in his eyes.
It made Aera happy—for him.
On the way to the house, Haeyoung chatted cheerfully about what she would write on the banners. Once they arrived, while Aera helped her father settle in, Haeyoung said she was going to the market.
"I want to cook something special for you both—if that's okay with you, Aera?"
"Please, sit. I'll do the shopping."
"Oh, no, no—how about this? While your dad rests, you and I go together. Just us girls. We can chat a bit."
"U-um... okay."
They walked quietly through the mall. Aera wasn't much of a talker—but luckily, Haeyoung was.
"Your father used to talk about you constantly. He never wanted your reunion to happen like this, but... what can we do? I'm so happy you two made peace.
And actually, I have a son. He's a bit older than you. If your father and I do get married, you'll have a younger brother—sort of. I'm really excited to introduce you.
My first husband passed away years ago. It was just me and my son for so long. But since meeting your father, I feel young again."
She giggled softly, almost like a schoolgirl.
"Actually, my son will be joining us for dinner tonight," Haeyoung said with a bright smile as they walked. "I hope you don't mind—I know it's a bit last minute. I've always dreamed of having a big family. Especially a sweet daughter like you. It feels like all my wishes are coming true. Since the finale is so close, I thought tonight would be the perfect chance to bring everyone together."
Aera didn't say much—but she doubted Haeyoung minded. The woman kept calling them a family, and although it felt strange… it was also kind of nice.
When they returned home, her father was lying on the couch. He sat up the moment they walked in.
"You're back?"
"Yes. Let me know if you need anything," Haeyoung said as she began putting the groceries away. "Aera, you can show me where things are, then maybe go sit with your father. I'll send the location to my son."
She moved effortlessly, organizing everything in a matter of minutes. Aera and her father could only watch her in silent amusement.
So this is what it feels like to have a mother figure, Aera thought.
A small smile tugged at her lips, and her father noticed. He reached over and gently took her hand in his.
"She was like this when I first met her too. Thank you for accepting her."
"As long as you two make each other happy… it's fine by me."
Later that evening, Haeyoung's son arrived.
"Let me introduce you," she said, almost beaming. "Aera, this is my son, Minho. He's a brilliant lawyer. Minho, this is Aera."
"Nice to meet you," Minho said, extending a hand.
"I've seen you on TV. It's great to meet you in person."
"Oh, really? And you're a lawyer? That's impressive."
"Yes—but exhausting."
"Alright, you two. Enough standing. Come sit down—I'm sure you're both hungry."
The dinner table was overflowing with food.
"This looks amazing. Thank you so much."
"Mom, you've outdone yourself again."
"Stop it, you two—you're embarrassing me."
Throughout dinner, Haeyoung, her father, and occasionally Minho chatted with ease. Aera mostly listened. It felt… real. Like a real family. Something she had craved for years.
She glanced at the window and caught their reflection.So this is what I've been missing all along, she thought.She had spent so long living with disappointment. And yet now… in such a short time, she had found people she loved, a new family, and a reason to smile again.
It had been a painful road—but the reward was beautiful.
After dinner, she stood up and asked for permission to return to the dorm. The finale was near, and she needed the whole night to plan her final performance.
"I wish you could stay longer," Haeyoung said. "But we've taken up so much of your time today—I'm sorry."
"Not at all. This has been a wonderful day. Thank you so much."
She walked over to her father and gave him a big hug.
"It feels amazing to see you this well again. I'm really happy for you."
"Take care, sweetheart. See you soon."
Her father was like her—short sentences, quiet emotions.
"I need to stop by my office," Minho said. "It's close to your company. I can drop you off at the dorm."
"There's no need. I can take the bus."
"My office is practically next door to your building."
"…Okay then."After saying goodbye to her father and Haeyoung, Aera got into the car with Minho.
"So," he said, casually glancing at the road ahead, "what do you think?"
"About what?"
"Our parents."
"Oh… I'm happy for them."
"I was completely against it at first," he admitted. "I guess I'm not as good a child as you."
"Why were you against it?" she asked, genuinely curious.
"After my dad died, it was just my mom and me," Minho said quietly as he drove. "She gave me all her attention, but she was tired. I didn't understand that back then. After she met your dad, her old spark came back. But I didn't realize it at the time. I guess... I got jealous of your father. I was afraid she wouldn't love me as much anymore. I finally understood her after I met my girlfriend. Sorry, I'm probably oversharing."
"No, it's okay," Aera replied softly. "Honestly, I feel a little conflicted too. Maybe you know, my dad and I hadn't spoken in a long time. We just recently started reconnecting. I only found out about his relationship today. I've already lost him once… now that I've got him back, I don't want to stand in the way of his happiness. And honestly, your mom seems wonderful. I think the best thing we can do for them is support their happiness."
Minho smiled.
"You're pretty mature for your age."
"I had to grow up early."
"Well, I watched your performance. You were amazing. My girlfriend's a huge fan of the show—she made me watch it too."
"Haeyoung-teyze and my dad are coming to the finale," Aera said. "If you and your girlfriend are free, I'd love to invite you both."
"That sounds great. Shin will be thrilled. Looks like we're here, by the way. Where should I drop you off?"
"Right at that corner is fine. Thanks for the ride… and the nice conversation."
"No problem. Here—want to save my number? Just in case you ever need anything. Or even if you don't. We're basically family now."
She pulled out her phone—only to find it dead.
"Battery's dead. I'll give you my number instead. Just text me and I'll save it."
He parked by the dorm gate and handed over his phone. Aera typed in her number and called herself from his screen.
"Thanks again for everything. Good night."
"Good night. Take care."
She stepped out of the car and stood on the sidewalk, watching the vehicle disappear around the corner. Just as she was about to turn toward the dorm entrance—
"Aera!"
She jumped.
It was Jackie—and Chuwon sunbae. Both standing in the shadows like they'd been waiting there for hours.
"What are you two doing here at this hour?"
"I've been trying to reach you all day," Jackie said. "Your phone's been off. We've been waiting here the whole time."
"My battery died," she muttered.
"Who was that guy?" Chuwon asked sharply.
"That's none of your business," she snapped. "And you—Aera, who was that guy?"
"A friend."
"I've never seen him before."
"Because we just met today."
"What? You got in a car with someone you just met today?! Rookie, that's seriously dangerous."
"He's not exactly a stranger. He's my dad's friend's son."
"Then why was he the one driving you? What were you two doing out this late?"
Aera stared at Jackie, stunned.
"We had dinner as a family," she said firmly. "And he offered to drop me off. If that answers your question, I'm leaving now. I'm tired."
She turned to walk away, but Jackie followed.
"Aera."
"Yes?"
"You look really pretty when you're mad. Maybe that's why I can't help myself. Don't smile at other guys again."
"Are you jealous?"
"Yes."
"Then don't do it yourself either."
"I don't."
She opened her mouth to argue—but couldn't. He was right.
"Then don't even think about it in the future."
"It's late. Go get some sleep."
She rolled her eyes and walked off toward her room.
Aside from the two infuriating boys who had cornered her outside the dorm like it was an interrogation room,it had actually been a pretty good day.
With only a few days left until the finale, everyone was working intensely. Jackie had locked himself in the studio as well, preparing to debut a new song from his upcoming album during the live broadcast—so they hadn't spoken much lately.
This time, the performance was longer and more demanding. The stress was heavier. Aera had lines to memorize, choreography to perfect, and only five critical days left.
And then… the final day arrived.
Backstage, Hannah was helping Aera with her makeup.
"I was so sure you'd leave this competition crying in the middle of week two."
"Hah. Sorry to disappoint you," Aera said flatly.
"Hey, don't be mad. Everyone thought the same. But look at you now—probably about to take first place. I'll admit it—you earned it. There. All done. You look amazing."
"Thanks. For everything."
"I'll go check on the other girls."
Aera was nervous—but it was a different kind of nervousness than day one. It was deeper. Sharper.And then, just as Hannah left, her father, Haeyoung, Minho, and a girl she assumed was Shin entered the room.
Haeyoung rushed over and threw her arms around her.
Both her dad and Haeyoung were wearing T-shirts with Aera's photo printed on them—they looked so silly and sweet that Aera couldn't help but smile.
"Aera, sweetheart, you look absolutely beautiful!"
"Thank you… for coming."
"Of course we came—we're your family!" Haeyoung beamed. "Come here—I want you to meet our other family member. This is Minho's girlfriend, Shin."
"Nice to meet you."
"Hi! It's so exciting to be here. I really hope you win."
"Thank you. That means a lot."
Then Aera met her father's gaze.
"No matter what happens," he said quietly, "I'm proud of you. But I know you're going to win."
Her eyes welled with tears.
"Nooo!" Haeyoung cried. "Don't make her cry—her makeup!"
While they were all laughing and talking, Jackie entered the room—and suddenly, all eyes turned to him.
"Hiiiii!" Shin squealed. "It's JACKIE!"
"I just came to check on Aera," he said. "But it looks like she's busy. I'll come back la—"He froze when he noticed Minho.
Then, he shut the door and stepped fully inside.
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Kang," Jackie said, offering his hand. "I should've introduced myself sooner, but we haven't had the chance. I'm Aera's boyfriend."
What is he doing?! Aera thought.
"Ah... Mr. Jackie—"
"Please, just Jackie. I'm basically family now," he added casually, before turning to Haeyoung and the others.
"And you are...?"
"I'm Haeyoung," she giggled. "Basically Aera's mom."
"These are my son Minho, and his girlfriend Shin."
Relief flashed across Jackie's face.
"It's a pleasure to meet you all."
Shin looked as starstruck as Haeyoung.
"I met Superstar Jackie! No one's going to believe this. Can we take a picture?!"
"Great idea," Haeyoung chimed in. "Let's take a family photo!"
First, they took a group photo. Then Shin took selfies with both Jackie and Aera—separately and together.
There wasn't much time left before the show began.
"We should get going," her dad said, standing. "We've tired her out enough for today."
"We'll be in the audience cheering you on," Haeyoung added. "Fighting!"
And then… Jackie and Aera were alone.
"You could've mentioned that guy was sort of your stepbrother."
"Jealous?"
"Yes. But I'm over it now."
"You're ridiculous."
"I support you with my whole heart. Don't be nervous—you're going to kill it, just like always. I have to go now—I'm opening the show with the first song from my new album. You better watch."
As he walked off, Aera made her way to the edge of the stage to watch from behind the curtains.
Her heart beat faster. She knew how hard he had worked on this.
The stage darkened. A deep blue glow washed over the scene, stars shimmering all around.It looked like the sky had come down to earth.
Jackie stepped onto the stage, calm and collected, and sat at the piano.
And then—
He began to play.
밤이 깊어질수록, 네가 더 빛나(The deeper the night gets, the more you shine)
You don't follow the stars—You make them rewrite their pathsEvery time you look my wayThe sky remembers our past
말없이 다가온 너, 모든 게 달라졌어(You came in silence, and everything changed)
The air feels lighter when you're nearLike the universe pulls you here어떤 힘인지 몰라도, 난 저항할 수 없어(I don't know what force this is, but I can't resist it)
You're the reason gravity breaksYou're the echo the moonlight takes우리 둘만의 별자리 만들어 (Let's draw our own constellation)No maps, no rules—just your name
You're the storm and the calm I knewThe spark that turns black into blue이 밤은 우리를 위해 열려 있어 (This night opens just for us)
I used to chase the lightBut you taught me how to glowNot everything that shinesHas to burn or let go
내 안에 심어진 너, 천천히 자라나(You've been planted inside me, growing quietly)
The sky is not enough tonightLet's outshine even the sunrise이 사랑은 법칙을 초월해 (This love breaks every law)And I don't wanna fall—unless it's into you
You're the reason gravity breaksYou're the echo the moonlight takes우리 둘만의 별자리 만들어 (Let's draw our own constellation)No maps, no rules—just your name
You're the storm and the calm I knewThe spark that turns black into blue이 밤은 끝나지 않아, 우린 계속 빛나 (This night won't end, we keep glowing)
세상이 멈춰도, 너는 계속 날 끌어당겨 (Even if the world stops, you keep pulling me in)Gravity is you.
The song had ended—but Aera was still under its spell.
Goosebumps lined her arms.Her heart felt full, her throat tight.
The entire audience had risen to their feet in thunderous applause.Jackie had written the song himself.And it was, without a doubt, the peak of his artistry.
She had watched with glassy eyes, holding her breath to the very end.
After Jackie exited, Taec-Yeon stepped onto the stage.
"That was truly a breathtaking performance," he said. "We didn't want it to end.And now… it's time for our girls to shine.
Each trainee has spent countless hours preparing for today, and now they wait—nervous and excited—for their moment.So without further delay, let's give the stage to them."
Backstage, everyone was laser-focused.The tension was thick, but no one wanted to let fear get the better of them.
Aera tried her best to stay centered.When the music began, all the nerves vanished.She let the rhythm guide her—let it carry her—and it worked.She made it through the group performance.
But the real shock was yet to come.
Her solo stage was next.And for that… she had taken a bold risk.
She had chosen to break free from her usual style.Something different. Radical.Why not, after all?
It was now her turn.
She was nervous. But also electric.
This was her moment.
She would shine.
불꽃이 돼Turn into fireDon't blink—I'm not the ghost, I'm the spark.
밤을 태워 내 리듬에Burn the night with my rhythmLip gloss on, spotlight's mineOne glance, and you're hypnotizedI'm not the girl you knew—surprise
심장은 Boom Boom, 숨길 수 없어My heart goes Boom Boom, I can't hide itClose your eyes, can you feel it rise?My name's in the heat, dripping from your sighsThis stage is mine—don't even try it
날 감당할 수 있어?Can you handle me?Touch the flame, if you dareI burn slow, then I take you thereNo halo, just high heels and air
나를 원해? 준비돼?You want me? Are you ready?Touch the flame, feel me glowSweat and stars in vertigoI don't kiss slow—I explode
너무 달콤해 중독돼Too sweet, it's addictiveCherry lips, a little sinI play nice, but I always winYou're falling fast—let's begin
이 밤을 뒤집어Flip this nightYou see an angel,But I dance like a warningI'm the reason you're burning
절대 후회하지 마Don't regret itTouch the flame, if you dareI burn slow, then I take you thereI'm your thrill, your midnight prayer
불꽃 속의 나를 봐See me in the flameTouch the flame, feel me glowOnce you taste me, you won't let go
[Outro – Whispered]
넌 성냥을 켰지만, 난 불이야.You lit the match... but I am the fire.(you can find on youtube Busunako -Touch the Flame)
In the very front row of the audience sat Aera's family. Her father, Haeyoung, Minho, and Shin all watched with eager, glowing faces. Haeyoung seemed completely immersed in the moment, waving enthusiastically every time the camera passed by.
Taec-Yeon stepped onto the stage.
"Once again, an outstanding performance from Aera. You continue to leave everyone in awe. Before we let you rest, do you have anything you'd like to say to the audience?"
"Thank you," Aera began. "First of all, I want to thank my family for being here today. Throughout this journey, I've tried every style to show who I really am. The judges and the audience supported me at every step. I've made it this far because of that support. I just hope you'll continue to believe in me."
"Thank you for those lovely words, Aera. We'll let you go now."
After her, the remaining trainees performed one by one. The finale was quickly approaching.
"Now that all the trainees have completed their performances," Taec-Yeon continued, "we are entering the final moments. You have 15 minutes left to vote for your favorite contestant. But before we do, I have something exciting to reveal…"
Backstage, the girls all leaned in closer.
"As you know, 7 trainees will debut. But strangely enough, no one has asked what the group's name will be. So, before we announce the final results… I'll reveal the name."
There was an excited buzz.
"What do you think it'll be?"
"Something simple and catchy?"
"No, no—it's going to be creative and cute!"
Everyone had their own theories. But none of them had a clue.
"The voting has closed. While we calculate the final rankings… the name of the group is… Straw Cherry!"
Screams of joy erupted backstage. The audience cheered loudly.
"And now, the moment we've all been waiting for. The final group members of Straw Cherry have been decided."
Aera felt her heart pounding violently in her chest.
"As always, we'll start from #6, and save #7 and #1 for the final reveal. Here we go.
With 481,533 votes, in sixth place: Chan Mi — congratulations!
With 542,895 votes, in fifth place: Bong Cha578,957 votes, fourth place: Hannah620,842 votes, third place: IseulAnd narrowly missing first place with 789,162 votes: Jessy in second."
"And now," Taec-Yeon said, "two more names remain. One is the group's center—the most voted trainee. The other has placed seventh. Both will join the final lineup."
"The first finalist is… Nabi.And the second is… Aera."
Aera froze.
She was in the final group.
Whether she was first or seventh—it didn't matter.She had made it.
She walked onto the stage with Nabi, hand in hand, breathless with joy.
"To those who didn't make it—please don't be discouraged," Taec-Yeon said. "Your journey doesn't end here. This isn't failure. Never stop trying."
"And now… the most anticipated announcement.
The center of Straw Cherry, and the winner of the competition…
Kim Aera."
She had won.
Tears poured down her face as joy overwhelmed her.
The same girl who once hid under blankets, afraid to leave her room—was now standing on a stage before millions.She had come so far. And she was proud of herself.
And in her heart, she silently thanked Jackie.For giving her the courage to get this far.
"Now that we've revealed our group," Taec-Yeon said, "let's return to the stage for one final performance from Jackie."
Aera moved backstage to watch. Her heart raced again—this time with anticipation for Jackie.
The lights dimmed. The stage turned deep blue, scattered with shimmering stars.It looked like the night sky had come to life.
Jackie walked out and sat at the piano.
And then—
"Before I start," he said, his voice echoing through the silence,"I want to congratulate Straw Cherry. Especially one member who I believe deserves more praise than anyone else."
He paused.
"We wrote this song together.You might know her as Yeppo Gumiho…But on this stage, she's known simply as Aera."
The crowd gasped.
Aera's secret had been revealed.
Jackie walked to her, took her hand, and led her to the center of the stage.
"We wrote this together," he whispered. "We need to sing it together."
Her hands trembled. Her heart was pounding so hard it echoed in her ears.
But when she looked into Jackie's eyes—everything else disappeared.
And then, she began to sing.
For that moment…
it was just the two of them.
AERA:What if he's my Romeo... but I'm not his Juliet?Caught in a love where the pieces don't quite set.He's the one I dream of every night,But in his eyes, I'm just out of sight.
OMG... I have to be his Juliet,Can't let this love become a regret.I'll rewrite the story, change the script,Make him see we're meant to fit.I'll wear the mask, play the part—Do whatever it takes to steal his heart.
JACKIE:But what if he never sees the light?What if I'm chasing a love that's never right?
AERA:OMG… I have to be his Juliet.Can't let this love become a regret.I'll rewrite the story, change the script,Make him see we're meant to fit.
JACKIE:Maybe I'm lost in a fantasy,Trying to force what's not meant to be...
AERA:Yet still, I'll fight for this chance—To turn a glance into romance.
What if he's my Romeo but I'm not his Juliet?Stuck in a love where the stars haven't met.He's the one I ache for every night,But in his world, I'm out of sight.
I have to be his Juliet.This love can't just fade and reset.I'll rewrite the story, change the script,Make him see we're meant to fit.
JACKIE:But maybe I'm lost in a fantasy,Trying to mold what's not meant to be.
AERA:And still, I'll fight for this thread of a chance,To turn a glance into a dance.
What if he's my Romeo... and I'm not his Juliet?I'll find a way to make him see me yet.I have to be his Juliet—This is the kind of love I just can't forget. (Busunako - Being Juliet)
She had already received the greatest reward of all.
She had found herself.
But along the way, she had gained even more—Loyal friends.A man she loved.And a family she never thought she'd have.
She hadn't just won a competition.She had reclaimed a life she once believed was lost forever.
And now, under the stage lights…with her voice echoing through the hearts of millions…
Aera finally felt whole.