The dorm living room was louder than usual. Everyone had gathered around the table with snacks, half-talking over each other like always. Han was arguing with Changbin about who ate the last cookie. Minho kept denying any involvement even though crumbs were clearly on his hoodie. Felix was trying to mediate, Hyunjin was recording the chaos for “evidence,” and Seungmin and I.N were pretending they weren’t amused.

You were sitting on the armrest of the couch, just watching everyone with that familiar fondness. It was one of those rare nights when everyone was relaxed.

Chan clapped his hands once, loudly enough to make the room pause. “Okay, okay. Before someone actually fights over a cookie, can we talk about something real?”

Changbin crossed his arms. “That cookie was real.”

Han pointed accusingly. “You’re deflecting!”

Chan ignored them both and looked around the room. “I’ve been planning something for the next album. A special track.”

Everyone leaned in a little.

Felix asked, “Another unit song?”

“Kind of,” Chan said. “But not a unit… more of a duet.”

The members started throwing guesses immediately. Hyunjin nudged Minho. “Bet it’s you.”

Minho shrugged. “I don’t duet for free.”

Seungmin smirked. “He wouldn’t pick you anyway.”

Chan shook his head. “No, it’s actually none of you.”

The room collectively gasped in exaggerated betrayal.

“Wow,” Han said dramatically. “Cheating on us with another vocalist?”

Chan turned his gaze toward you, and suddenly the room felt a bit too quiet.

“I want to do it with y/n.” he said simply.

Eight sets of eyes snapped to you.

You sat up straighter. “Me? Why me?”

Chan’s expression softened, more serious than before. “Because your voice has this feeling that fits the song idea I have. And I’ve been wanting to write something where your tone stands out. I think you and I could make something really beautiful together.”

The members erupted immediately.

Felix clapped excitedly. “Yes! You’d sound so good together!”

Han was already pretending to cry. “Our Night Member is moving up in the world.”

Hyunjin gave you a little proud smile. “I’ve been saying this for months.”

Changbin muttered, “Fine… I guess that’s acceptable…”

You looked back at Chan, his eyes steady on yours, waiting for your answer despite the chaos around you.

“Well,” you said, trying not to smile too much, “if you really want me to… then yeah. Let’s do it.”

Chan’s grin appeared instantly, warm and relieved. “Good. I was hoping you’d say yes.”