Page 43 of Wish Upon a K-Star

T he day after our honeymoon episode airs my mother calls.

“Hello?” I answer cautiously, unsure how this will go.

“Did you see that Liza Kang posted about your honeymoon on her stories?”

“What?” I’m confused by the abrupt topic without even a hello.

“Liza Kang, don’t you know her? Oh, Hyeri, you should be better at keeping up with Korean American celebrities. She’s so hot after the first season of Musical Dreams aired on Disney.”

“No, I know who Liza Kang is.” She’s slated to be the next big thing. Some people even think she’ll take over the mantle from Olivia Rodrigo. And since she’s Korean, everyone in the community is very excited.

“Well, she’s obsessed with your show! Specifically, you and Moonster. This is such good news.”

“That’s great, Mom,” I say weakly. It’s like whiplash with my mom sometimes. Her disinterest is like a never-ending Westeros winter, but the moment she’s happy with me she is like a bulldozer planning out the next ten years of my career.

“So, I read some of the viewer comments and it seems people love it when you and Minseok show skinship, so I think you should focus on that.”

I roll my eyes to the ceiling and hold back my heavy sigh. It wouldn’t be worth reminding her that she called me a bimbo after we barely touched at the wedding shoot. And now she’s telling me to snuggle up to him more on camera?

At least she’s showing a positive interest in you, Hyeri. Don’t take this moment for granted.

“Okay, Eomma,” I say, forcing brightness into my voice. “I’m glad you’re enjoying it.”

“Do you think we can get the show to have Hyejun-ie on it again? It would be nice to have some crossover promotion between you two.”

“I think he’s in Japan right now with AX1S,” I remind her.

“Oh yes, I forgot. World tour!”

Asian Tour . But I don’t correct her.

“All right, well, I can’t believe both of my kids are doing so well! I just came from drinks with the girls. They’re all so jealous of my talented children.”

That must be the source of her energy right now. “I’m glad, Eomma. Maybe we can have a call this weekend if Appa’s also home?”

“I have to go, I’m at the spa. Kisses!”

“Love you,” I try to get out, but the call cuts off.

Well, at least she’s happy, I tell myself. That means I’m doing well.