Chapter Text
Prologue
LYKN had been going strong for almost a year after being formed through Project Alpha. All five boys, Nut, Hong, Tui, William, and Lego, were still basking in the glow of finally achieving their dream of debuting as a T-Pop group. They were signed under Riser Music, a subsidiary of GMMTV, a company renowned for its wide-ranging dramas and a roster packed with rising actors and entertainers. But LYKN wasn't just another pretty-boy group. Each member brought something vital to their success, not just talent, but identity, energy, and heart.
Nut is the kind of person who lights up a room without meaning to. Warm and grounded, he carried his rising fame with effortless humility, never one to seek the spotlight, yet always shining in it.
A curious soul with a creative streak, he was often seen with a camera slung around his shoulder, capturing everyday beauty through his lens the way others might overlook. Beneath the gentle smiles and easygoing tone was a razor-sharp mind, studying nanoengineering at one of the country's toughest universities. But even with his schedule packed between classes and performances, he never missed a moment to support his team, to lift someone's spirits, or to flash his signature grin and say, "That's right."
He treated the members like brothers, equal parts teasing and protective. He remembered the little things: someone's favorite snack, who prefers quiet before a show, who needs space and who needs distraction. He spoke to them in whatever way they understood best, sometimes through words, sometimes through a reassuring glance, or just sitting next to them in silence.
Hong was the kind of person who moved through the world with quiet intensity. A blend of introspection and creativity, he often found solace in the pages of manga or the melodies of indie music. His thoughts ran deep, and while he wasn't the first to speak in a group, when he did, his words carried weight and insight.
He had a meticulous nature, evident in his approach to both his studies in Integrated Innovation at Chulalongkorn University and his role as LYKN's main rapper and lead dancer. Hong's dedication was unwavering; he would rehearse routines repeatedly, striving for perfection not out of obligation but from an internal drive to excel.
Despite his reserved demeanor, Hong possessed a subtle charm. He had a penchant for quirky details, like his fondness for the scent of airports, which he associated with new beginnings and adventures. His dream of visiting Iceland spoke to his appreciation for serene landscapes and introspective journeys. Off-stage, he was thoughtful and attentive. He remembered the little things, a teammate's favorite snack, a friend's upcoming exam, and offered support in quiet, meaningful ways.
But put him on stage, and Hong became someone else entirely. The quiet boy with the bookish smile transformed into a sharp-eyed performer with just the right amount of sass. He knew exactly how to tilt his head, toss a wink, or deliver a cheeky smirk between rap lines, setting fans on fire. His stage presence was magnetic, cool, confident, and just a little bit dangerous.
Tui was a whirlwind of energy and emotion, a vibrant presence that could light up any room. From a young age, he was drawn to the spotlight, singing since he was six and later mastering the drums, guitar, and beatboxing. His passion for performance was evident, but it was his authenticity that truly captivated those around him.
Despite his lively exterior, Tui harbored a depth of feeling that made him both empathetic and introspective. He was unafraid to express his fears, be it heights, darkness, or the thought of being left behind, making him relatable and endearing. His dream of living in a mountain house with two turtles named Miso and Enso spoke to his longing for tranquility amidst the chaos of fame.
On stage, Tui transformed. The playful boy-next-door became a commanding performer, his movements precise and his presence magnetic. He channeled his love for superhero and monster films into his performances, embodying the strength and charisma of his on-screen idols. His favorite color, orange, mirrored his fiery passion and zest for life.
In moments of stillness, Tui's introspective side emerged. He was a deep thinker, often contemplating the world around him with a mix of curiosity and wonder. His desire to learn the Saiyan language was more than a quirky aspiration; it was a testament to his belief in limitless possibilities and the power of imagination.
William was the definition of a "natural" who actually worked incredibly hard to get there. He spent his childhood feeling like he hadn’t found his "thing" even while excelling in sports and earning a black belt in Taekwondo. Everything shifted around age 13 when he heard Tom Isara sing; that spark led him to vocal lessons and eventually to the prestigious Young Artist Music Program (YAMP) for high school. There, he specialized in musical theater and mastered both piano and guitar, even busking around the city with his high school band, Broccoli. This rigorous foundation paid off during Project Alpha. His powerhouse vocals and absolute command of the stage were so undeniable that he never once lost his "Alpha" status, ultimately being crowned the King of Alpha.
Offstage, William was a fascinating study in contrasts. He was known for an intense work ethic and a "stubborn" streak of perfectionism that kept him grounded. Despite his fame, he was naturally shy and didn’t open up to strangers easily. He often drifted into his own world, getting "distracted" until his LYKN members playfully pulled him back to reality. Once he was comfortable, his playful and chaotic side emerged, making him a fan favorite for his natural (if accidental) humor. He also was terrible at hiding his emotions and fans quickly began comparing his reactions to a walking emoji.
He loved the mountains, watching love stories, and his dog Chowon and was terrified of roaches and the sound of balloons popping. While he lived for the thrill of singing and connecting with fans, he remained a student of the craft, constantly eager to grow and maybe even act someday.
Lego was the kind of performer who commanded attention without even trying. Off-stage, he could appear laid-back, but the moment he stepped into the spotlight, he transformed into a force of nature, sassy, sharp-tongued, and ready to set the world on fire. His diva energy was undeniable, and he wore it like a crown. Whether it was his eye-rolls, dramatic sighs, or the way he snapped his fingers when something wasn't up to par, Lego wasn't afraid to make his opinions known. His temper? Quick and fierce.
But Lego wasn't just about attitude, he was a master on the dance floor. When he moved, it was like watching art in motion. His precision, his rhythm, and his power were unmatched. His dance moves weren't just technical; they were full of emotion, a perfect reflection of his personality. Every body roll, every sharp turn, every smooth glide felt like he was telling a story.
Off-stage, his humor was as sharp as his dance moves. Lego had a biting wit and wasn't afraid to use it, often leaving others laughing or speechless in equal measure.
Lego was also the youngest in the group, adored by his older members. They spoiled him, not out of obligation, but because his infectious energy and drive made him the little brother they never knew they needed. His playful antics, quick comebacks, and genuine enthusiasm for life kept the mood light, even during the toughest moments. The older members often found themselves looking out for him, amused by his fiery temper but equally protective of the youngest member they all loved.
LYKN was not only making waves in the T-POP scene, but they were also earning a deep affection from the entire GMMTV family. It wasn't just their talent that captivated people; it was their infectious energy, dedication, and how they carried themselves with a genuine sense of camaraderie and warmth. The GMMTV actors adored them, especially the youngest member, Lego.
Lego's personality was like a magnet. His sassy diva nature mixed with his playful, innocent charm made him a hit with everyone, from the more seasoned actors to the newcomers.
Fans quickly noticed how Lego seemed to be everywhere in GMMTV's circle. It wasn't unusual to see Lego, with his mischievous grin and flirtatious teasing, casually interacting with many of the actors and their on-screen partners. Whether he was in the background of a video or at a party, Lego's cheeky remarks and playful gestures were hard to miss.
Fans loved to capture these moments and, in true fan fashion, would often create hilarious captions for these videos. They would joke about Lego "collecting" GMMTV actors and their "boyfriends".
Over the past year, LYKN had built genuine friendships with many of the actors in the GMMTV circle, gradually becoming a natural extension of the company's close-knit family. Their bond with the team felt effortless, so much so that when GMMTV management approached them with a unique opportunity, it didn't come as a complete surprise.
The proposal? A drama centered around a rising T-Pop group grappling with the complexities of fame, personal dreams, and challenges within their management company, laced with just the right amount of romance. The script had been shelved for nearly five years, quietly waiting for the perfect combination of idol-actors to bring the story to life.
After watching LYKN's performance in their short film for No Worries, GMMTV was convinced they had finally found that combination. The members' natural chemistry, emotional range, and on-screen presence made them an ideal fit. As an added bonus, GMMTV had recently signed a promising new talent, an athlete-turned-actor whose quiet charisma and screen appeal made him the perfect choice to play the love interest.
The timing felt serendipitous. All the right pieces were finally in place.
Chapter 1
The LYKN members were gathered in the practice studio, relaxing after a long day of rehearsals. The atmosphere was light, everyone joking around and teasing each other. The door opened suddenly, and their manager P'Ko steps in with a smile and a large envelope.
P'Ko: (with a grin)
"Hey, guys! Got something exciting for you today."
The members stop what they're doing, curiosity piqued. P'Ko walks over and places the envelope on the table in front of them. There's an air of mystery that grabs their attention.
Tui: (raising an eyebrow)
"What's this? More fan event announcements?"
P'Ko: (grinning wider)
"Actually, something a little more... exciting. How would you all feel about acting? About starring in a drama?"
The group exchanges looks of surprise, and then excitement begins to ripple through the room.
Nut: (with a smirk)
"You mean we act? Are you sure you want that chaos on set?"
P'Ko: (laughing)
"I'm serious. The execs were really impressed with your acting skills in the short film. This is a project about a boy group, much like you guys, actually. The drama will explore the ups and downs of being idols, the struggles with management, and all the pressure that comes with fame. But there's a twist."
Lego: (with a playful tone)
"Let me guess, there's a love story too, right?"
P'Ko: (nodding)
"Exactly! There will be an additional storyline, a romance between two of the characters. It'll add depth to the drama, showing the personal struggles of balancing relationships while in the spotlight. And..." pauses for dramatic effect "...P'Tha wants you to be part of it."
The members exchange more looks, some with raised eyebrows, others with wide smiles. It's clear that the idea excites them, but there's an underlying mix of nervousness and curiosity about stepping into something new.
William: (leaning forward, intrigued)
"So, what exactly would we be doing? Playing ourselves? Or are we acting as completely different characters?"
P'Ko: (smiling)
"It's a mix. You'll portray characters that are similar to your own personalities, but with some added drama, of course. There will be a lot of scenes where the group faces tension with the company and each other. The pressures of being idols, dealing with schedules, and personal life choices."
Hong: (grinning)
"Oh, so basically, we get to play out all the things we complain about during our group chats, huh?"
The group laughs, but P'Ko's tone turns more serious.
P'Ko: (with an hint of mystery)
"But there's more. We'll be casting another actor into the show. Someone who will be important to the romance subplot. This actor will play someone close to one of the members, and their chemistry will drive part of the storyline."
The room falls silent for a moment as the members look around, processing the new information.
Nut: ( leaning back and grinning)
"So, not only do we get to act, but we get to cause some real drama on screen? I'm in."
Tui: (with a sarcastic smile)
"I can already see it, the heated arguments, the betrayed looks, and maybe a few epic romantic scenes. This is gonna be a mess."
William: (laughing)
"A beautiful mess, though. I think it'll be fun, honestly. I've always wanted to try serious acting."
Hong: (playfully)
"And maybe we can finally get to live out those revenge fantasies we have against our managers in real life."
The group laughs again, clearly excited at the thought. P'Ko watches them, amused by their enthusiasm.
P'Ko: (smiling motioning to the envelope on the table)
"This is just an outline, I'll bring over the full scripts in a couple of days. Think about it. It's a great opportunity, and it could really showcase your range. Plus, with all of your fan support, this could be a massive hit."
The members begin to nod, starting to get excited about the possibilities.
Lego: ( with a cheeky grin)
"Well, if we get to create some drama, especially with that love story angle, I'm sold."
The group bursts into laughter once again, the tension from earlier replaced by the familiar banter. But now, there's a sense of excitement in the air, a new challenge on the horizon. They've faced pressure from all sides before, but this? This is something new and they're ready for it.
Late afternoon a couple days later and LYKN is in the practice room. The air buzzes with excitement as the members sit around the low coffee table, bottles of water and snacks scattered between them. Laughter echoes off the walls as they flip through the thick script packets that were just handed to them. Their manager, P'Ko, stands nearby with arms crossed and a fond, slightly tired smile.
P'Ko: (teasing)
"You better actually read those instead of just skipping to the love scenes."
Nut: (grinning)
"Too late. Page 73 already broke my heart."
Lego: (mock gasp)
"Wait, do I cry in this? Ugh, they better get my good side. I don't do ugly tears."
The members continue their joking, flipping pages and reading bits aloud. P'Ko's eyes drift over the group until they land on William. He clears his throat.
P'Ko:
"William, can I talk to you for a second?"
William glances up, surprised. He nods, setting the script down and standing. P'Ko gestures toward the hallway outside the studio. The group quiets down a little, watching curiously as the two step out and the door shuts softly behind them.
Just outside the studio door. It's quieter here, the hallway lit with a soft amber glow from the setting sun. P'Ko leans casually against the wall, arms folded, as William stands in front of him.
P'Ko: (gentle, measured)
"I wanted to talk to you first, before things move ahead too quickly."
William: (nodding slowly)
"Okay..."
P'Ko:
"So—you're probably guessing this already, but in the script, one of the group members has a love story outside of the band. A pretty big one. And... that storyline is yours."
William blinks, processing. He doesn't speak right away. P'Ko watches him closely.
P'Ko: (careful but direct)
"It's a BL storyline. The character you're playing, Thame, falls for someone outside the group. It's a slow-burn kind of romance. Emotional. Sweet, but also really raw. A lot of your scenes will center around that relationship."
William: (quietly)
"Oh."
P'Ko: (softens)
"It's a good role. Honest. Grounded. They didn't just write it in to cause drama, it actually carries a lot of the emotional weight of the show. But before we move forward, I wanted to check with you first. If this is something you're comfortable with."
There's a pause. William looks down the hallway, then back to P'Ko.
William: (thoughtful)
"It's not that I'm against it. I just... wasn't expecting it."
P'Ko: (nods)
"Totally fair. No one's pushing you into anything, William. If this isn't something you want to do, we can talk to production. They're flexible. We're not here to force anything."
William crosses his arms lightly, thinking.
William: (slowly)
"Honestly... I think I'm okay with it. Nervous, yeah. But the way you're describing it... it doesn't sound cheap or forced. If it's a real story... I think I could do it justice."
P'Ko's face breaks into a soft smile, proud, relieved.
P'Ko:
"Good. That's all I needed to hear. And listen, this isn't just about acting. You're already someone a lot of people look up to. Doing this well? With heart? It could really propel you and LYKN to new heights."
William: (nods again, quieter this time)
"I get that."
P'Ko: (pats his shoulder)
"I'll walk you through the schedule and the casting once we're set. Just wanted to make sure you were really okay first."
William smiles, nervous but genuine.
William:
"Thanks for asking me privately."
P'Ko: (grinning)
"Of course. Now come on, before the others start casting themselves as your love interest."
Back inside the practice room. As soon as William opens the door and steps back in:
Lego: (laughing)
"Did P'Ko just ask you to kiss someone on camera?"
William, unfazed, smirks and tosses himself back onto the couch.
William:
"Not just someone. A boyfriend."
The room explodes with cheers, fake gasps, and playful teasing. The group is already halfway into fanfic-mode.
Nut: (grinning)
"See? I knew you'd be the main character."
P'Ko goes over the roles assigned to each of the boys: Nut as Jun, Hong as Dylan, Tui as Pepper, and Lego as Nano. They all start digging into the character summaries at the front of the script. As they read, each of them begins to notice little similarities between themselves and their roles, not exact matches, but enough pieces of their real personalities to make a connection.
William's role as Thame stands out from the rest. Unlike his usual chaotic and playful self, Thame is calm, mature, and deeply caring. As the leader of the group, he's the steady one, the protector who quietly carries the weight of responsibility on his shoulders.
As William reads through the character description, he glances up at P'Ko, eyebrows furrowed.
William: (eyebrows knit)
"P'Ko... this guy's nothing like me. I'm awkward and half-clueless most of the time. How am I supposed to be this guy?
Nut: (teasing)
"It's literally called acting, William. You crushed that emotional role in the short film, this'll be a breeze."
Lego: (smirking)
"Besides, you get to fall in love on-screen. Steamy kissing scenes and all. Poor you."
The others burst into laughter, throwing in exaggerated sympathy and playful jabs. William groans but can't help grinning. P'Ko gives him a warm, confident smile and nods.
P'Ko:
"You've got it in you. We all see it, even if you don't yet."