Zhou leaned back in his chair, a sheepish grin creeping across his face as the bright studio lights glinted off the polished table. The lively chatter of the crew faded into a low hum, leaving only the sound of his heartbeat thrumming in his ears. “Never have I ever missed a flight,” the interviewer had said, and he couldn’t help but raise the panel that read, “I have.”

Laughter erupted from the small audience, their eyes glinting with anticipation. “You want to tell us what happened?” the interviewer prodded, leaning in with a playful smirk, her curiosity evident. Zhou ran a hand through his hair, the familiar rush of embarrassment flooding his cheeks.