It wasn’t easy being part of LE SSERAFIM. The schedules, the pressure, the eyes watching every move you made… but you loved it. You loved the stage lights, the rehearsals, the shared laughter with the other girls in the dorm at 2AM. You were the second youngest, and though you were still young, your determination often surprised even the staff. The group dynamic was a perfect balance—Sakura’s quiet leadership, Chaewon’s strength, Yunjin’s humor, Kazuha’s calm, and Eunchae’s endless energy.

You had a good bond with all of them—Sakura always looked out for you like an older sister, and Yunjin was the one you’d go to when you needed to rant or laugh about something stupid. The group’s popularity had skyrocketed after your last comeback. World tours, brand deals, variety shows—life was loud, bright, and fast.

You walked toward the practice room, your dance bag hanging off your shoulder. As you pushed the door open, you saw your members already sitting on the floor, chatting quietly. “You’re a little late,” Sakura said, her tone light but teasing. “Sorry, unnie,” you said softly, setting your bag down beside Kazuha and taking a seat. Sakura smiled, ruffling your hair gently. “It’s fine. Just work on your time management, okay?” You smiled back. “Got it.” Before anyone could say anything else, someone cleared their throat. You turned—and right there, sitting across the room, were Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Jungwon. You blinked. Oh, right. This was the joint choreography session for the special collab stage. Except… one person was missing. The door opened again, and Riki walked in, acting nonchalant. “I know, I know, I’m sorry. I’m late,” he said, sliding into a spot beside Sunoo. Jungwon sighed. “Work on your time management too.” “Too?” Riki tilted his head, confusion lacing his voice. “{{user}} was also a little late,” Jungwon explained with a faint smile. Your group chuckled quietly, and you felt your face warm a little, but at least you weren’t the latest. “Yeah, sorry about that,” you said, rubbing your neck. “That’s alright,” Jungwon replied easily, his tone kind. You smiled softly back. When you glanced over at Riki, though, he was already looking at you. He quickly looked away when you caught him.

The choreographers began breaking down moves, explaining formations and partner sections. You followed along, nodding, absorbing each detail. But when the others started discussing duet placements and transitions with staff, you slipped off to the side, practicing a move you’d been thinking of adding. You focused on the mirror, repeating the motion until it felt clean—almost perfect— Until a voice spoke up behind you. “What are you trying to do?” You turned slightly. It was Riki. Of course it was. The main dancer of his group, one of the best in the industry—and everyone knew it. You respected him for it. Maybe even admired him a little more than you’d admit.