Webtoon: Tower of God

Requested by: @Christine_Wytte

(Y/n)'s POV

A large, looming door stood before us as we arrived at our next challenge. I immediately reached for my necklace, feeling its cool surface against my skin. My drumming heart slowed to a slow beat as we headed inside.

I slowed in awe as I admired the beautiful stage on which we stood. The overhanging chandelier and magnificent glass furnishings took my breath away. It seemed that the others were just as surprised as I was.

The others...but only two stood out to me, like two roses amongst a field of fresh grass. A pang of pain exploded in my broken heart as Alexia (made-up character) intertwined her fingers with Khun's.

"Hey (Y/n), look at this," exclaimed Bam.

I headed over, trying to ignore the two who had no knowledge of my feeble existence. Bam moved to the side, letting me see the silver sign that hung on the wall.

"To pass this challenge, a group of your choice must sing the song written below. Failure to impress our judges will result in fatal consequences."

"So? Who's singing?" Endorsi asked.

I immediately backed away, afraid to speak - let alone sing - in front of everyone. I risked a glance at the two and instantly regretted my decision to do so.

"Come on, Alexia. Your singing's got to be great," Khun encouraged.

"*smiles* Okay, if you say so."

"Geez, look at you two lovebirds," Endorsi commented while rolling her eyes.

"You're just jealous that no one likes you," Khun remarked.

"What was that?! Ridiculous! Come on, (Y/n). Let's go up."

I was left unable to protest as she dragged me to the microphones that were waiting for us. She shoved one into my shaking hands before throwing one over to Alexia. I looked at the ground, afraid to meet everyone's judging gazes.

"Just calm down," said Endorsi.

"Yeah, you'll be fine," Alexia added.

"...o-okay, I'm ready."

The lights dimmed, save for the ones on the platform and the raging spotlights shining down on our bodies. As if it had read our minds, the music started right on time.

(A/N): The song was requested by @Christine_Wytte and it's the first time I've heard it. I don't exactly understand it hence why I didn't add lyrics within the chapter but anyway, enjoy the rest.

Alexia started first. I couldn't help but listen as if my life depended on it. Her voice was indeed beautiful and there was no way I could even compare to her. She was better than me in every way...no wonder Khun fell for her.

I hesitantly joined in before Endorsi. Although I had doubts about my singing ability, I was glad that at least our three voices seemed to blend in well.

The song resonated within my heart as if it was reflective of the feelings I had held in, kept hidden away. Through this song, I let out my small voice and allowed my feelings of desperation, envy and sadness to flow out.

I managed to look at everyone's faces, only to notice Khun staring straight back at me. His expression remained blank as if he harboured no emotions whatsoever for just another girl who was capable of nothing.

I forced myself to look away from his enchantingly blue eyes and glanced at Alexia. She had a gentle smile plastered on her face, reminiscent of when she first fell in love with Khun.

That was when the flashbacks hit me like a flood. I remembered the day when I first fell in love but little did I know that this love would be the very thing to break my resolve.

~Flashback to when you were younger~

I giggled as the puppy licked my face. It was adorable and friendly, something that I've always longed to be. Unfortunately, I was just a girl with no one to rely on.

"Do you like it?" asked Khun.

"*blush* Like it? I love him. Thank you so much!"

"I'm glad I decided to take him with me instead of leaving him on the streets if he makes you that happy."

My heart thumped heavily in my chest as he crouched down to pet the puppy. He was so close yet I knew he couldn't get any closer. He and I were...only friends, nothing more.

"From now on, he'll keep you company if I'm not with you."

"Khun, thank you."

"*smiles* Don't be alone all the time. Make some friends even if you're scared."

"Hey, you won't leave me, right?"

"Why would I?-"

"Promise?"

"Yeah, I promise."

~Flashback end~

Yes, he and I were childhood friends...but my love was unrequited. I was too naive back then. I should've known that he would never keep a promise that he had deemed unimportant and childish.

Soon, the song finished, leaving the room filled with everyone's loud applause. My face darkened to a tomato red as I quickly hopped off stage and out of sight.

I was terrible and pathetic and had very low self-esteem...how could Khun ever love someone like me? I was just a prick in his finger; a heavy weight which he must carry on.

"Hey (Y/n)."

I jumped, startled by the person's sudden voice. Khun dragged me underneath the platform, away from all eavesdroppers. I looked up at him, only to notice him looking back at me with a pained expression.

"I-I'm sorry," he exclaimed.

"You're sorry? You did nothing wrong-"

"You're always too nice for your own good. I..I never meant to push you away. I was...just afraid to hurt you, knowing how you felt about me...but I loved Alexia..."

Despite feeling like a knife had been stabbed through my bleeding heart upon hearing those words, I continued with a smile.

"Don't worry about me, Khun. You were the one who taught me to be strong so I cannot possibly be the me I was back then."

His grip on my arm tightened before he released me. My body longed for his touch, even if just for a little longer. I let out a small gasp as he pulled me in for a quick hug.

"I'm sorry for pushing you away. Let's just stay as friends, okay?" he whispered into my ear.

"...okay."

I was left alone as he walked off when Alexia called for him. I collapsed, unable to stand any longer. A silent tear slid down my cheek but whether it was out of joy or sorrow...I couldn't tell.

I clutched my necklace, trying to calm my pained heart and disoriented mind. Khun, what have you done to make me feel this way?...