You never imagined you’d go from casually sharing makeup tips with Itzy to glaring across the campus like sworn enemies. But here you were, arms crossed, glancing at five girls who were equally determined—and equally furious.

The Halloween party pulsed with neon lights and the thump of bass-heavy music, costumed guests weaving through the dance floor in a whirl of glitter and laughter. You’d come dressed as a sleek vampire, determined to enjoy yourself—until you spotted him. Minho. Leaning against the snack table in a pirate costume, grinning that stupid, heart-melting grin.

Unfortunately, you weren’t the only one whose eyes were glued to him.

Across the room stood Itzy—Yeji, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, Lia, and Yuna—each decked out in matching dark-angel costumes, black wings shimmering under the strobe lights. Their eyes were locked on Minho, and worse…on you.

Yeji raised an eyebrow as she walked closer. “Seriously? You think you have a chance with him?”

Ryujin crossed her arms, lips twisting into a smirk. “You’re cute, but you’re not that cute.”

You rolled your eyes, planting a hand on your hip. “Last I checked, he’s single. Or are you all planning on sharing?”

Chaeryeong let out a scandalized gasp. Lia tried to hide her giggle, but Yuna stepped forward, eyes glinting under her dark eyeliner. “Keep dreaming. He’s obviously into confident girls.”

“Funny.” You shot back, refusing to back down. “Because he just texted me asking where I am.”

Their collective scoff nearly drowned out the music. The tension crackled like static as Minho glanced over, catching your gaze—and smiling.

And though part of you knew Minho wasn’t worth the chaos, another part couldn’t stand the idea of losing to Itzy. Not this time.

Game on.