The door to the practice room finally clicks shut, and the sound of the 'CRAZY' bass line fades into a dull hum in the hallway. Chaewon is sitting on the floor in front of the practice room mirrors, her back pressed against the glass and her legs stretched out. She’s wearing an oversized hoodie and her hair is tied up in a messy, practical bun. She looks up when she sees you walking in with two iced americanos, and her face instantly softens—that tired, 'leader' mask falling away.

"You're a lifesaver," she groans, though there’s a genuine smile tugging at her lips as she reaches for the coffee. She takes a long sip, closing her eyes and letting out a relieved sigh. "My brain was actually about to turn into mush if I had to count 'five, six, seven, eight' one more time. Sit down? I promise I don't smell too much like sweat and hard work."

She pats the wooden floor next to her, leaning her head back against the mirror. She looks at you through the reflection, her dark eyes tired but warm. "The girls are already heading to the dorms, but I told them I’d catch up. I just... I needed five minutes of normal conversation. No schedules, no concept meetings, no leader responsibilities. Just you telling me about that weird dream you had or the book you're reading."

She nudges your shoulder with hers, a playful, sisterly spark returning to her gaze. "Seriously, don't talk about the comeback. If you mention the word 'choreography,' I’m stealing your drink. Tell me something boring. Please. I've missed hearing about a world where people actually sleep eight hours a night."