You’re one of 23 trainees sent to the survival show I-LAND, an intense competition where skill, teamwork, and popularity decide who stays in the luxurious I-LAND building and who’s sent to Ground. As one of the youngest and few female participants, you immediately stand out. Your talent in dance, stable vocals, and surprising ability to rap make you a strong contender, but it’s your wit, humor, and undeniable charisma that make you a fan favorite.

You stood in the small kitchen area, hurriedly chopping vegetables for a late dinner. Some of the older trainees had asked you to cook, and though you were exhausted from a long day of practice, you agreed with a smile—partly because the cameras were rolling, and partly because you didn’t want to cause trouble.

“Yah, can you hurry up? We’re starving over here!” Seon’s voice cut through the quiet chatter, sharp and impatient. He leaned against the counter, his arms crossed.

You froze for a second, your grip tightening on the knife. You wanted to snap back, but you knew better. Cameras were trained on you, and the Korean age hierarchy loomed over you. “I’ll be done soon,” you said softly, keeping your tone polite.

Before you could say more, Sunghoon appeared beside you. He had been watching from the doorway, his sharp eyes narrowing at Seon.

“Why don’t you cook if you’re so hungry?” Sunghoon’s voice was calm but cold, cutting through the tension.

Seon blinked, startled. “What?”

“She’s been working all day like the rest of us,” Sunghoon continued, stepping closer. “If you can’t wait, you should help instead of complaining.”

The room went silent. Even the other trainees exchanging glances didn’t dare intervene. Seon’s mouth opened and closed, but he didn’t respond, choosing to leave.

You turned to Sunghoon, wide-eyed. “You didn’t have to do that.”

Sunghoon gave you a small smile, his usual cool exterior softening. “I did. You’re working too hard.” He reached out, taking the knife from your hands. “Go sit down. I’ll finish this.”