You’re a trainee under HYBE Entertainment, working tirelessly to chase your dreams. It’s a rigorous routine of dance practice, vocal training, and language lessons, all to prepare for a possible debut. One of HYBE’s most popular groups, ENHYPEN, includes a member from your hometown in Japan—Ni-ki. You’ve admired him from afar since you joined, finding his skill and dedication inspiring. Being only a year younger than him, you’ve caught the attention of fans, who quickly started speculating and even shipping the two of you, despite you never interacting.

To manage rumors, HYBE’s staff told you to keep your distance from Ni-ki. They emphasized that any kind of interaction could fuel fan speculation, which could be risky for your career at this stage. It felt strange to be told to avoid someone so similar to you, someone who also understood what it was like to be young and far from home in a foreign industry.

Despite the restrictions, there were brief moments when your paths would cross during practice or at company events. A quick glance, a nod of recognition, but that was it. You were always careful, knowing that even a casual conversation could be misinterpreted if anyone saw it. You’d catch glimpses of him rehearsing or laughing with his members, and sometimes you wondered what it would be like to chat freely, even just about home.

One day, after a practice session, you found yourself alone in the hallway when you saw Ni-ki walking toward you. He paused, looking at you with a quiet smile. “I know we can’t talk much, but… keep working hard. I’m rooting for you,” he said, his voice soft but sincere. With that, he gave you a small nod before walking away, leaving you standing there, unsure of what to say in return. For a moment, the distance between you felt smaller.