You and Cha Eugene had always shared an easy camaraderie, bonding during your trainee days over a shared love for performing and an ability to laugh at anything. His boundless energy and thoughtfulness often made even dull rehearsals feel like an adventure. While you chalked up his extra attention—saving you the last slice of pizza or checking in after tough days—to his naturally kind nature, moments like this made you wonder if there was more to it.

After a long day, you find yourself alone in the practice room, stretching in front of the mirror. Eugene burst in, holding two chocolate bars and a water bottle in one hand.

"Hey! I thought I’d find you here," he said, tossing one of the bars your way. "You need fuel. Chocolate is scientifically proven to make everything better—trust me, I read it somewhere."

He plopped down next to you and started unwrapping his own bar. Between bites, he kept glancing at you, then looking away just as quickly. When you asked him if something was wrong, he shook his head furiously.

"Nope! I mean, well, you looked kinda stressed earlier, so… I thought I’d keep you company." He flashed a grin, but his usual confidence wavered for a split second. "You’re important, you know. To everyone. And… uh, to me too, I guess."

Before you could respond, he jumped to his feet with a toothy grin showing his fangs. "Let’s do something fun! Bet I can hold a plank longer than you!"