August 17
I started the day with my usual morning routine and dressed in boyfriend jeans and a Blue Marble Asymmetrical Mesh long sleeve Crop top, paired with Adidas white and brown chunky shoes and a ponytail.
By lunchtime, we had toured all three apartments. I told Xingyi that I preferred the largest one, as it had everything I needed, like a gym and other essentials. Taeha, my well-behaved little Pomeranian, made the process even easier.
The choice was obvious, one apartment lacked space in the master bedroom, and another was too far from the city, despite being close to the SM building. Plus, its contract was too complicated.
Afterward, I headed to the SM building to meet with the agent. We discussed my plans, and I signed the contract. While I was fine with an open-ended contract, Xingyi insisted I sign a five-year deal. That way, I could debut within five years and renew the contract as part of a group. After finalizing everything and setting a date to begin my training, I left the building with Xingyi, but not before greeting Taeyong's group members.
Next, we made our way to JYP. I still had four months left on my contract there as I didn't end the contract 3 years ago, and JYP asked me to help manage their rookie group during that time. I was appointed as their assistant manager, so on the drive over, I watched their performance videos to prepare. PD JYP said he'd introduce me to them today.
Upon arriving at the JYP building, a staff member guided me inside. I was led into a training room where PD JYP and nine boys stood in a straight line.
I greeted PD JYP with a little bow, and he motioned for me to stand beside him.
"She will be your assistant manager from today on. Introduce yourself," he said. I smiled and gave a little bow to the boys.
"Hello, I'm Lee Yeim-Woon, and I'll be whatever PD said," I joked, making the boys chuckle.
"Stay! One!" they shouted.
"Hello, we are Stray Kids." They each introduced themselves individually, but I already knew two of them. Bang Chan and Han Jisung.
After the introductions, PD JYP gave us some time to get to know each other. I took the opportunity to give them a bit of a lecture.
"Maybe you know, maybe you don't, but I'll only be your assistant manager for four months. By the end of the year, I won't be part of your staff anymore. I'm here to help you, lead you to your first music show win, and help your albums and other creative projects, though not your merch," I said. They nodded, understanding the situation.
"I've watched your journey from the 'Stray Kids' survival show," I said, my gaze steady. "And while there were moments of brilliance, I have to admit… I'm disappointed."
The words hung in the air, tension building as the boys exchanged silent, wide-eyed glances. I paused, giving my words time to settle.
"JYP groups have a reputation and a legacy," I continued, my voice firm but calm. "They've always debuted with a clear identity, something powerful and distinct. You don't just want to be good; you want to stand out. Now, I'm not saying you lack talent; on the contrary, you're skilled performers. But right now, the music feels… restrained. There's a spark, but it hasn't fully caught fire. This isn't just about individual performance, it's about creating something that leaves an unforgettable impression. Something that makes people think, 'This is Stray Kids.'"
The room was silent. Their initial shock gave way to thoughtful expressions. I could tell they were absorbing my words, processing the implications.
"Look," I softened slightly, offering a smile to lighten the critique. "You've got everything you need to do much better. I can see your potential that unique edge. And I'm here to help you bring that out."
Just then, Xingyi chimed in, stepping forward with a bright smile as she handed out coffees. "You're being too harsh," she teased, nudging me slightly. "A little caffeine might make this advice easier to digest, hm?"
The boys visibly relaxed, a few of them smiling as they accepted the drinks. Xingyi's warmth seemed to cut through the tension, and I let the mood settle before continuing.
"Now, let's break it down." I set my coffee aside and looked directly at each of them in turn. "I think you may have been gone through the same words but words not work, ha?" I smirked giving a meaningfull look. "Tell me, what does 'Stray Kids' mean to you? I want to know what each of you brings to the group, not just as vocalists, rappers or dancers, but as storytellers. Because that's what a concept is, it's not just a song, it's the story you're trying to tell."
A few of the members shifted, their faces thoughtful as they considered my question.
"Chan?" I gestured to him. "You're the leader. Start us off. What does this group mean to you? What's the vision you're fighting for?"
Chan took a deep breath, visibly gathering his thoughts. "To me… Stray Kids is about resilience. We all have things we want to prove, things we're pushing against," he said. "We're young, but we're serious about what we do. We want to make music that feels real."
I nodded. "Good. But now, let's make that vision unmistakable. I want every beat, every line to capture that resilience. Think about who you're speaking to. What do you want them to feel? What do you want to say to the kid listening in their room, feeling like no one understands them?"
One of the oldest members, Lee Know, spoke up quietly. "We want them to feel like they're not alone. Like… they can get through whatever they're dealing with."
I smiled. "Exactly. That's the heart of it. Now, let's turn it into sound. Your voice, your energy, the choreography, all of it should echo that message. Think bigger than the notes or the dance moves. I want to see that fire. I want each of you to feel that same purpose when you're on stage. Let them see your struggle. Let them feel your resilience."
The boys exchanged determined glances, a sense of clarity settling over the group. The energy in the room felt different now. Focused, driven.
"And remember," I added, "don't just aim for 'good.' Aim for 'unforgettable.' You have the talent, the grit, the heart to make this happen. I'm excited to see you reach it. Now, are you ready to dig in and find that next level together?" I said giving my biggest smile ever.
"Yeah" They all said together.
"By the way, you look so young when you smile," Bang Chan remarked, making everyone chuckle.
"I know you might not remember, but three years ago, I was also a trainee here. I met both you and Jisung back then."
"Senior?" one of them asked, surprised.
"Please, you're flattering me. Just call me Yeim. Now, drink your coffee while it's still hot."
I checked the time. "It's getting late. I'll be in touch with your manager and get your schedules sorted. Here's my contact info; feel free to reach out if you have any questions or if you need something and can't ask directly." I handed over my number and said my goodbyes.
Xingyi and I decided to have dinner together before heading home for the night. After dining, I returned home and settled in for the evening.
August 18
I started my day with my morning routine and wore a sleeveless beige crop top with black accents and a statement graphic text, "I don't give a f*ck," paired with a dark, utilitarian-style mini skirt featuring side pockets and a Fendi belt. Chunky black Dr. Martens shoes, paired with scrunched-up cream socks, Fendi slim sunglasses, a Fendi small shoulder bag, and Fendi Gold jewelry with a y2k half-tied messy hairstyle.
Xingyi and I headed to the SM building, while Taeha was being cared for at the pet shop. Xingyi even promised to buy me a drink every morning from now on.
Later, I spoke with Mother Lee about moving out. It took some time to convince her, but she finally accepted the idea. I began packing my belongings, though I didn't have much I wanted to take to my new apartment.
In the evening, Taeyong came over, and we spent hours catching up on everything we had missed. It was well past midnight by the time I fell asleep on the couch.
August 19
I woke up in the bed, though my sleep had been interrupted a few times by nightmares. Taeyong was still hugging me, so I gently shook him off. I did my morning routine and dressed in a tube crop top, denim shorts, and a loose, see-through summer jacket, paired with white Chanel shoes and a messy hair bun.
Mother Lee asked me to wake Taeyong for breakfast. Afterward, Xingyi and I took my things to the new apartment. When we arrived, the entire living room was filled with boxes of various sizes.
Xingyi explained that my grandparents had asked about my design preferences and must have ordered everything for the apartment. So, we spent the day unpacking and decorating. The apartment had everything I could need, along with extra décor to complete the look.
The apartment itself was spacious, with five bedrooms and six bathrooms. I asked Xingyi to leave two bedrooms empty and turn one room into a studio, another into a study, and the last one into a closet. Within a few days, everything was organized, and I made a list of things I still needed, including musical instruments and books from my favorite genres.
While Xingyi relaxed on the sofa, I took a tour of my newly decorated apartment. The monochromatic design gave it a sleek, modern look. Everything was perfect, except I still needed more outfits, accessories, and kitchen supplies.
In the evening, I took a shower and decided to prepare dinner for my guests. The entire Lee family had agreed to come over. I made a full Korean spread—shrimp, meats, vegetables, and rice. They arrived at 6:30 p.m., and after inspecting the apartment, we enjoyed dinner. Mother Lee even offered a few tips before they left, leaving behind Taeyong and his teammate Jaehyun to help with the dishes.
Taeyong had brought Jaehyun along, and after they finished cleaning up, they relaxed and watched TV. Around 10 p.m., their driver arrived to pick them up. Xingyi decided to stay the night, and after doing my night routine, I went to bed.