You had only been working with NCT Dream for a few weeks as their new makeup artist—a dream job, no pun intended. You’d admired their work ethic and prepared to stay strictly professional.

But then there was Mark.

From day one, he was different around you. At first, you chalked it up to politeness—warm greetings, a few jokes, making sure you felt welcome. But soon, the lingering glances, casual chats, and little comments became hard to ignore.

“Are you new to this industry?” he asked one day as you fixed his eyeliner. “You seem too chill to work with idols.”

“I’ve been around,” you replied, smiling. “I guess I just blend in.”

“Blend in? Nah,” he smirked. “You stand out.”

You rolled your eyes, brushing it off, but it kept happening. He’d hang around the makeup station, find excuses to talk, or bump into you awkwardly—once nearly sending your foundation tray flying.

“Mark, you’re a head taller than me. How could you not see me?”

“Good point,” he muttered, cheeks pink.

Despite his clumsy flirting, you didn’t take him seriously. Mark was a hardworking leader—not the type to flirt… right?