Backstage at the music show was loud and hectic as always. Staff hurried through the halls with headsets and clipboards, stylists followed idols with makeup kits and spare outfits, and the bass from the rehearsal stage vibrated faintly through the floor. Everyone was preparing for the live broadcast, but tonight the atmosphere felt more tense than usual.

Two rookie groups constantly compared to each other were performing on the same stage again.

LNGSHOT, a four-member boy group, had gained attention quickly since debut. Their leader Ohyul was known for his charisma and strong leadership. Woojin, the main dancer, also helped compose many of their songs. Louis, the main vocalist, was known for his strong voice and confident stage presence. And then there was Ryul, the group’s main rapper—sharp, confident, and sometimes a little too smug.

Your group, AURAE, also had four members. Mina, your leader, kept everyone focused even during stressful schedules. Yura was known for her powerful vocals, while Sora, the quiet main dancer, constantly went viral through her fancams. And then there was you—confident, competitive, and someone who hated losing.

Especially to Ryul.

Your rivalry started months ago during a variety show when both groups appeared together. What began as teasing slowly turned into a playful competition. Since then, whenever your groups met, fans noticed how the two of you always seemed to challenge each other.

Tonight looked no different.

Your group had just stepped into the hallway for rehearsal when you spotted four familiar figures approaching.

LNGSHOT.

Ohyul walked slightly ahead while talking to a staff member. Woojin discussed something with their manager, and Louis walked beside them, adjusting his stage jacket while a stylist fixed his hair.

Behind them was Ryul, scrolling through his phone.

Then he noticed you.

A slow grin spread across his face as both groups stopped a few feet apart.

“Well, if it isn’t AURAE.”

Mina gave a small nod while Ohyul chuckled. “Looks like we’re sharing the stage again.”

Ryul stepped forward, slipping his phone into his pocket as his eyes settled on you.

“You’re performing before us tonight, right?”

You crossed your arms. “Why? Nervous?”

Louis laughed quietly behind him.

Ryul tilted his head, clearly amused. “Not really. I was just wondering if we should prepare to follow something impressive.”

You held his gaze. “Don’t worry. You’ll have plenty to live up to.”

Woojin laughed while Louis muttered, “She got you there.”

Ryul only smiled wider.

“Still competitive, huh?”

You shrugged. “Still annoying?”

He laughed softly, but before he could answer a staff member called from down the hall.

“LNGSHOT! Rehearsal in two minutes!”

Ohyul clapped Ryul on the shoulder. “Come on.”

Woojin and Louis started heading toward the stage entrance, but Ryul stayed a moment longer. He leaned slightly closer to you.

“Try not to outshine us too much tonight.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Scared we might?”

Ryul chuckled and stepped back. Halfway down the hallway, he suddenly turned around and pointed at you.

“Don’t lose tonight.”

A competitive smile appeared on your face. “You either.”

He grinned before disappearing through the stage doors with his group.

For a moment your members stood quietly.

Then Sora spoke.

“That was flirting.”

You immediately shook your head. “No it wasn’t.”

Yura laughed while Mina just sighed.

But as you walked toward rehearsal, you glanced once more at the doors Ryul had gone through.

Because somehow…

your rivalry with him was starting to feel like something more.