#chicposts

Ever since you were little, sleeping anywhere seemed to come naturally to you. Your mom would always shake her head, half amused, half exasperated. 'Are you narcoleptic or something?' she’d ask, watching you curl up on the couch during breakfast or nod off on the stairs as if they were just another cosy surface.

Of course, you weren’t. You just had this uncanny ability to fall asleep wherever, whenever, and however you pleased.

That habit, harmless as it once was, became a quiet superpower once you joined Katseye. Between early mornings, back-to-back rehearsals, interviews, and long travel days, your schedule barely left room to breathe, let alone sleep. So, you adapted—you learned to nap anywhere, even under less-than-ideal circumstances.

The girls quickly learned your tendencies, and honestly, it became a bit of a running joke. You could be anywhere, and you’d find the perfect angle to close your eyes.

Sometimes it was in the back of the van, sprawled across the leather seats with a scarf pulled over your face like a makeshift eye mask. The hum of the engine, the faint sway of the ride, and your uncanny ability to tune out everything made it almost impossible to wake you without shaking you lightly—or risk waking up a very grumpy you.

Airports became another stage for your naps. While your other members ran around dragging bags, fumbling through boarding passes, or trying not to miss the announcements, you would find a quiet corner—sometimes right on the cold, hard floor—and curl up into yourself.

Your head might rest on your backpack or just a wall, knees tucked under your chin, blanket hastily wrapped around your shoulders if you were lucky enough to have one. To anyone walking by, it looked uncomfortable, but you’d drift instantly into that deep, restorative sleep that made the chaos of travel fade entirely.

Backstage before concerts? Forget about it. The girls had often laughed as they tiptoed past you in the little green room or dressing area. You could be perched on a chair, sprawled across a couch, or tucked into the corner of a back room, and you’d be completely out.

Sometimes they’d leave little notes or a bottle of water beside you, just to make sure you were safe and had what you might need when you woke. Sometimes, they’d find you mid-conversation, nodding off with your phone balanced precariously in your lap, and carefully slide it to the side so you could sleep.

Rehearsal studios were no exception. You had a knack for finding just the right moment to catch a quick nap, often leaning against the wall or stretched out on the floor with a jacket or hoodie draped over yourself.

Even in the middle of warm-ups, during stretches, or between complicated choreography runs, the girls had learned that disturbing you was a mistake—sometimes resulting in sleepy grumbles, sometimes in a full-on grumpy tirade that left them quickly apologising and backing away.

Over time, your ability to nap anywhere became part of Katseye lore. It wasn’t just about sleeping—it was a testament to your adaptability, your ability to find rest and reclaim a little energy even in the whirlwind of idol life.

And while the girls teased you relentlessly about it, they also admired it. Because you somehow managed to take care of yourself in the little ways, even when the world demanded everything else from you.

---

An example of your talent of being able to sleep anywhere was when you were standing in line at the airport check-in counter. It should have been impossible as the lights were too bright, the floor too hard, the space filled with the low murmur of other travellers and the constant rolling of suitcases.

And yet you stood behind Manon, your passport clutched loosely in one hand, backpack hanging from your shoulder. At first, you were alert enough—shifting your weight, blinking slowly, eyes half-lidded as you waited.

But then, without even thinking about it, you leaned forward slightly, resting your forehead against the space between Manon’s shoulder blades.

Just lightly. Barely any pressure at all.

Manon didn’t think much of it at first. You were always clingy when you were tired, always finding small ways to anchor yourself to someone nearby. She adjusted her stance instinctively, giving you something sturdier to lean on, one hand casually stretched back to rest on your waist.

But then the weight shifted.

Slowly. Gradually. Unmistakably.

Manon stiffened as she realised you weren’t just leaning anymore—you were sinking. Your grip on the passport loosened, your breathing evened out, and your forehead pressed more firmly into her back.

She glanced over her shoulder, eyes widening just a little.

'Wait… are you—?' She whispered.

No response.

Your knees buckled slightly, your entire body trusting her without question as sleep pulled you under. Manon reacted on instinct, quickly sliding her whole arm back to steady you before you could tip forward completely.

'Oh my god,' she muttered, half laughing, half concerned. 'You’re actually falling asleep standing up.'

Sophia, standing beside her, noticed immediately. 'Is she asleep?'

Manon adjusted her grip, turning around to hold you upright as subtly as she could. 'I think so. She’s like… fully gone.'

Your head tipped sideways, cheek now resting against her shoulder, mouth parted slightly as you exhaled softly. To anyone else in line, it probably looked like a tired member leaning on a friend. But Manon could feel it—your entire weight slack and trusting.

She sighed, fond and amused, and murmured quietly, 'You’re unbelievable.'

The line shuffled forward, and Manon gently rubbed your back. 'Hey. Hey—wake up.'

You stirred, brows knitting together as you let out a small, displeased sound. 'Mm… five more minutes.' You mumbled, voice thick with sleep.

She laughed under her breath. 'Nope. We’re moving. You’re about to be checked in as luggage.'

Your eyes fluttered open slowly, unfocused at first. You blinked up at her, confused. 'We… landed already?'

Sophia snorted. 'She thinks we teleported.'

Manon nudged you upright, slipping the passport more securely into your hand. 'Come on. Stay with us. At least until security.'

You groaned softly but shuffled forward, still half asleep, instinctively staying close to Manon’s side as the line moved.

And just like that, you were awake again—if only barely—leaving behind another moment that proved you could, in fact, sleep absolutely anywhere.

---

Another time was in the rehearsal studio. It was buzzing in that familiar, low-level way. Music humming softly from the speakers, sneakers squeaking against the floor, the faint echo of counting and breath as the girls stretched and warmed up.

You, meanwhile, had found your spot.

At first, you were just sat leaning against the mirror, arms crossed loosely over your chest, head tilted back so it rested against the cool glass. Perfectly normal. Perfectly fine.

But slowly—imperceptibly—you started to slide.

Your shoulders rounded forward. Your chin dipped to your chest. One knee slid, then the other, until you were hunched over in a tight, awkward-looking curl, forehead nearly resting on your own knees practically slick with the floor. From a distance, it looked deeply uncomfortable—like your body had folded in on itself mid-thought.

Megan was the first to notice.

She paused mid-stretch, frowning slightly. 'Uh… is she okay?'

Daniela followed her gaze and immediately stiffened. 'Why is she shaped like that?'

Lara squinted. 'That cannot be comfortable.'

The three of them drifted closer, voices lowering instinctively, as if they were approaching a skittish animal. Megan crouched slightly in front of you, trying to catch your eye.

'Hey, Y/N,' she said gently. 'You good?'

No response.

Daniela tilted her head, concern creeping into her voice. 'Y/N?'

Lara leaned in, eyes widening as she realised what was happening. 'Oh my god… wait... she’s asleep.'

Megan blinked. 'No way.'

Daniela reached out carefully, placing a hand on your shoulder. 'There is absolutely no way she’s sleeping like that.'

You shifted slightly at the touch, letting out a soft, annoyed hum—but didn’t wake. Your breathing was slow, even. Fully gone.

Lara clapped a hand over her mouth, laughing quietly. 'She looks like a shrimp.'

'That can’t be good for her back.' Megan muttered, though she was smiling now.

Daniela tried again, gently shaking your shoulder. 'Hey. Hey, nap queen. Wake up.'

You jolted awake instantly, eyes snapping open as you straightened just enough to glare at them through your lashes.

'What,' you grumbled. 'Why are you all staring at me?'

Megan laughed. 'Because you were folded in half. We thought you were dying.'

You groaned, rubbing your face. 'I was sleeping.'

Lara raised an eyebrow. 'Bent over in the fetal position? Against a mirror?'

'Yeah,' you snapped, already sulking. 'And you woke me up.'

Daniela snorted. 'You can’t just power down like that and expect us not to check on you.'

You pushed yourself to sit upright with a dramatic sigh, stretching slightly before immediately frowning again. 'I’m hungry.'

The suddenness of it made all three of them burst out laughing.

'That’s it?' Megan said, shaking her head. 'That’s the crisis?'

'Yes,' you replied flatly. 'I want food. And I want it now.'

Lara wiped at her eyes, still laughing. 'She wakes up grumpy and starving every single time.'

Daniela helped you stand up before slinging an arm around your shoulders, steering you away from the mirror. 'Come on. Let’s get you fed before you curl back into a ball and nap on the floor.'

You let yourself be guided, still grumbling under your breath. 'You shouldn’t wake sleeping people. It’s rude.'

Megan smiled fondly as she followed behind. 'You shouldn’t sleep like a folded deck chair.'

But even as they teased you, all three of them stayed close—half amused, half protective—already used to the fact that if you stayed still long enough, sleep would always find you.

---

This one time had everyone in disbelief. It was during a concert delay.

You and the girls are already dressed, mics fitted, hair and makeup done. The adrenaline is there—buzzing under your skin—but nowhere to go. Somewhere out front, the crowd is loud and restless, chanting your name in waves that bleed faintly through the walls.

Backstage, though, it’s all waiting.

Crew members pace with headsets pressed tight to their ears. Someone mutters about sound checks. Someone else says something about a lighting issue. Ten minutes turns into twenty. Twenty stretches longer.

You end up on the floor.

At first, it’s just to stretch. You lie on your back near the wall, legs lifting up until your feet press flat against it. It’s comfortable in that oddly grounding way—blood rushing just enough to make your body feel heavier, calmer.

Your phone rests loosely in your hands as you scroll, thumb moving on autopilot. Every now and then, you hum softly, running through gentle vocal warm-ups under your breath. Scales. Little riffs. Nothing strenuous—just enough to stay warm.

The girls are scattered around the green room.

Megan is pacing, shaking out her arms. Lara’s sitting cross-legged, talking animatedly to Daniela about something she saw on the monitor. Manon is leaning against the counter, sipping water. Sophia’s seated nearby, watching the room with that calm, steady presence she always has.

Yoonchae, meanwhile, is spinning in a chair.

Then she stops. She squints. '…Guys.'

No one responds.

She leans closer to you, tilting her head.

Your phone is no longer moving. Your humming has stopped. Your chest rises and falls slowly, evenly. One arm has slipped limply to your side, the phone resting against the floor. Your legs are still propped up against the wall like nothing in the world is wrong.

Yoonchae’s eyes widen. 'She’s—' she whispers, already pulling out her own phone. 'She’s asleep.'

Instantly, she drops into a crouch, snapping photos like she’s uncovered a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon.

Click. Click. A video. A zoom.

'She’s sleeping like a vampire,' Yoonchae hisses, barely containing her laughter. 'Who sleeps like this?!'

Daniela turns first. 'Wait—what?'

Megan freezes mid-stretch. 'No. She’s not.'

Lara peers over, then bursts out laughing. 'Oh my god, she actually is.'

Manon covers her mouth. 'We’re… we’re about to go on stage.'

Yoonchae is thriving. She circles you carefully, documenting every angle.

'Legs on the wall,' she narrates softly. 'Phone dropped. Zero awareness. This is insane.'

Before she can get any closer, Sophia stands. 'Yoonchae.' She says gently but firmly.

Yoonchae looks up. 'But—'

Sophia shakes her head once. 'Let her sleep.'

She moves quietly, kneeling beside you. Carefully—so carefully—she places a bottle of water near your hand, then a small snack beside it. She tucks them close enough that you’ll notice them when you wake, but not close enough to touch you.

The room softens.

Megan lowers her voice instinctively. Lara mouths she’s unreal. Daniela watches you with fond disbelief.

Sophia straightens and glances at the door. 'If they call us up,' she says calmly, 'we’ll wake her. Otherwise… we let her be.'

Yoonchae pouts but complies, retreating to the couch—still grinning down at her phone, already reviewing her evidence.

You sleep like that for a few more minutes.

Legs up. Body slack. Completely at peace.

Until a crew member sticks their head in. 'We’re ready in two.'

Sophia crouches again, brushing your shoulder gently. 'Hey,' she murmurs. 'It’s time.'

You blink awake, eyes unfocused. You squint at the ceiling. At the wall. At your legs.

'…Did I fall asleep?' You mumble.

The girls lose it.

Yoonchae practically shouts, 'DURING A CONCERT DELAY!'

You groan, sliding your legs down and sitting up slowly. You grab the water automatically, taking a sip like this is all perfectly normal.

'I was waiting,' you say simply, then glance at the snack. '…Oh. Thanks.'

Sophia smiles. 'Of course.'

You stand, stretch once, roll your shoulders—and just like that, you’re ready. Awake. Grounded. Yours again.

As you head toward the stage, Yoonchae whispers loudly, 'I’m posting those later.'

You don’t even argue.

Because honestly? Sleeping on the green room floor, legs on the wall, five minutes before a concert— that’s just… you.

And the girls wouldn’t have it any other way.

---

The apartment is alive with laughter. The girls are sprawled across the living room floor, camera pointed at them for a casual Weverse livestream.

Lara and Daniela are debating over snacks, Megan is trying, and failing, to balance a bowl of popcorn on her knee, and Manon is, of course, laughing her iconic dolphin laugh, high-pitched and impossible to ignore. Sophia leans back against the couch, smiling at the camera but keeping a sharp eye on the chaos.

Meanwhile, you’re tucked away in your room, wrapped in your blanket like a burrito, blissfully sleeping. Your bedroom door is slightly ajar, the soft glow of sunlight mixing with the flicker of the livestream lights from the living room.

You’ve found a perfect spot to nap, and for once, no one has to tiptoe around you—though they’d never admit it, the chaos of the apartment has become a sort of white noise that lets you nap even harder.

Laughter, chatter, the occasional excited squeal from the livestream all blur together in the background. You barely stir… until Manon’s laugh spikes into that unmistakable dolphin-pitch crescendo.

A faint crease forms between your brows.

You sigh in your sleep, pulling the blanket over your head a little more, as if trying to escape the sound waves entirely.

It works for about ten seconds.

Eventually, you give up. You stretch slightly, then push the blanket down just enough to blink your eyes open. The light feels too bright. Everything feels too loud.

You shuffle out of your room and stop in the doorway, rubbing your eyes as you take in the living room. All six girls are scattered across the couch and floor, snacks in hand, bodies angled toward the livestream phone propped up nearby.

Your gaze lands on Daniela's phone, she has her back to you, phone in hand as she reads the chat. You squint at the fans’ comments scrolling by although you can't really read them:

chatter01: Is that y/n asleep in the back?? whilst standing?? chatter02: Stop omg she's so cute I can’t handle this. chatter03: She looks grumpy already—adorable. chatter04: OMG she’s emerging… she’s coming for us.

You let out a sleepy hum, pinching the bridge of your nose as if the noise has finally caught up to you. Then, with your usual sleepy determination, you cross the room and plop down right on Manon’s lap without a word. The blanket comes with you, draped over both of you.

'Mm… too loud,' you mutter, voice groggy and eyes half closed. You nuzzle into her shoulder. '…But it’s okay. I love you.'

Manon freezes — just for a second — before her hand comes up to rub slow circles over your back. She laughs softly, somewhere between amused and melting, as you settle more fully against her.

The blanket shifts again, spreading across Lara too. She lets out a small, surprised sound before instinctively adjusting so you can drape over her as well.

Sophia moves without thinking, kneeling beside the couch. Her fingers glide through your messy hair, gentle and practiced.

'Hey,' she murmurs. 'It’s okay. Just sleep.'

Yoonchae leans toward the camera with an exaggerated grin, pointing discreetly at you. 'She’s not fun when she’s tired.'

Your eyes crack open at that.

'…Hey,' you mutter, lifting your head just enough to glare. 'That’s rude. And for that—' you pause, squinting like the thought takes effort, '—no bubble tea.'

Yoonchae gasps. 'Wait—no—!'

But you’re already sinking back down, cheek pressed into Manon’s shoulder again. Manon chuckles under her breath as Sophia shakes her head fondly, her hand still resting between your shoulders. Lara shifts closer, careful and quiet, making sure you’re supported.

The livestream chat explodes

chatter05: She’s literally laying on them all—this is peak Katseye content chatter06: I love that she’s so comfy and grumpy at the same time chatter07: Yoonchae’s bubble tea is officially cursed

You mumble something incoherent, barely audible, as Megan gently slides a pillow toward you. You don’t even notice — you’re already drifting again.

The room naturally softens around you. Voices drop. Movements become careful. It’s like everyone has silently agreed to orbit you without disturbing your sleep.

'Honestly,' Daniela whispers toward the camera, smiling, 'she can nap anywhere. Studio floors. Vans. Corners.'

Sophia nods slightly, squeezing your shoulder. 'She gets… very comfortable.'

You shift faintly, a quiet sound leaving your throat — something like 'too loud…'

Manon stiffens just a little, tightening her hold. Lara adjusts, easing your legs across her lap. Megan freezes mid-reach with a bowl of popcorn.

'Careful.' Manon whispers, barely audible.

The chat floods with laughing emojis and warnings.

chatter08: She’s just a baby, your honour chatter09: Watch out, she’s moving! chatter10: They’re all terrified but also smiling so hard. I can’t handle this chatter11: Manon is basically a living pillow for her right now

You settle again, head heavy against Manon’s shoulder. Sophia resumes rubbing your back, humming softly under her breath.

Lara chuckles softly, glancing at you. 'I swear, every time she moves just a little, we all panic. It’s like walking on eggshells.'

Daniela grins, whispering into the camera, 'Honestly, it’s worth it. She’s too cute to care about being careful. Even if we’re slightly terrified.'

Then—

'ACHOO!'

Daniela’s sneeze is loud, sharp, impossible to ignore.

You jolt awake instantly, blanket shifting as your head snaps up. Your eyes blink rapidly, unfocused, before narrowing on Daniela.

'Daniela,' you groan, voice rough and startled. 'You scared me.'

Her face crumples. 'I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to—I just sneezed!' She scrambles up onto the couch and wraps you into a clumsy, apologetic hug. 'I didn’t mean to wake you.'

You rub your face, then sigh, the tension leaving you almost immediately. 'It’s okay.' You mumble, letting yourself stay curled against her for a moment.

But you don’t fall back asleep.

You blink, listening again — the chatter, the girls, the warmth of the room. Yeah. You’re fully awake now.

Daniela brightens. 'So… we can be loud again?' She asks, hopeful.

You nod, sitting up a little as the blanket slips down. The energy in the room shifts instantly.

Megan couldn’t help but laugh, pointing at the camera. 'This is literally that meme! You know the one… where the guy sneezes and scares all the deer away from the deck?' She tilted her head, eyes twinkling with humour. 'And the woman’s like, ‘Oh nice, Ron,’ and he’s like, ‘What? I’m not allowed to sneeze anymore?’ That’s literally Daniela and Y/N right now.'

You chuckled groggily, a hand brushing through your messy hair. 'Yeah. Guess I’m the deer.'

The chat loses it.

chatter18: The deer got scared chatter19: Daniela is officially Ron and y/n is the deer. I love it chatter20: THE DEER 😭 chatter21:what is even happening in this live, someone tell me

You leaned back fully while Sophia reached over to smooth your hair, muttering softly, 'You’re ridiculous, you know that?'

You grin back, still sleepy. 'Yeah. But you love me.'

She hums. 'Unfortunately.'

The girls all laughed quietly, feeding off each other’s amusement while making sure you stayed comfortable.

Yoonchae leans toward the camera again, whispering, 'See? Even awake, she’s still a little bit of a menace.'

You yawn, stretching slightly. 'Careful. Or the bubble tea ban comes back.'

Everyone laughs.

And there you are — awake, warm, wrapped in a blanket and surrounded by chaos and care in equal measure. The livestream rolls on, the chat goes wild, and Katseye settles comfortably back into itself, exactly the way it always does.

---

Later that evening, after the livestream had ended and the apartment had quieted down, you finally pulled yourself away from the group.

The blanket was still draped loosely over your shoulders, hair sticking up in all directions, and your face was flushed from the warmth and lingering chaos of the afternoon. You stretched, letting out a big, exaggerated yawn, and lazily wandered to your phone to scroll through social media.

At first, you were just glancing at random meme accounts, but then something caught your eye: edits.

Hundreds of edits. Edits of you and the girls. Every moment from the livestream where you’d been asleep, half-awake, or completely out of it was suddenly immortalized in fan creations. Some were photoshopped, some were little memes with captions like:

Ultimate Nap Boss: She conquers all laps. When your favourite human is a blanket burrito overlord. Me trying to nap anywhere like Y/N. Do not disturb: Y/N is in hibernation mode.

You blinked, mouth falling open slightly, and then scrolled further. There were edits of you sprawled across Manon and Lara, one where Sophia was smoothing your hair with a caption that said: 'She’s too cute to handle—administer pets immediately.' Another showed Daniela flinching mid-sneeze with an exaggerated 'WARNING: Sneezes may wake sleeping goddess' overlay.

You let out a soft snort at first, but then a genuine, loud laugh bubbled out of you. Some of the comments were so outrageous and spot-on that you howled in laughter, clutching your stomach.

One edit had a fan scribbled dialogue between you and Megan, 'Move slightly and you die,' paired with your sleepy, grumpy expression—it nearly made you fall out of your chair.

'Oh no,' you whispered to yourself, cheeks flushing pink. '…that's embarrassing.'

Unable to resist, you quickly send the link of the funniest edits and compiled them into a single message, sending it to the group chat. Within moments, your phone was buzzing like crazy.

Lara: OMG I KNEW people were saving those moments! You look hilarious 😭 Megan: I cannot… she’s literally a burrito overlord on us all, I’m dead 😂 Manon: I’m offended AND honoured that you plopped on me for your nap. Now the entire fandom knows😅 Daniela: gurl you're actually adorable Sophia: I swear she looks grumpy but so… soft. I can’t even. Stop being cute 😭 Yoonchae: You’re officially the chaos queen of naps. I’m scared and in awe.

You buried your face in your hands, muffling a laugh.

You: Stop… stop! I’m never showing my face again. How did it get this bad?

Daniela, ever the cuddly instigator, sent a string of heart emojis and a teasing message:

Daniela: You mean the adorable chaos that keeps me entertained for hours? You’re welcome 😘 Megan: Honestly, I’m still laughing at that meme where you looked like a startled deer. I keep thinking about it every time I see you move even slightly

Sophia, probably the most fond and exasperated of all, sent a voice note, 'You have no idea how cute—and ridiculous—you look. I keep imagining this as a highlight reel of Y/N's nap powers. I… love you, but seriously,' she sighs drastically, 'Stop giving them content like this.'

Yoonchae chimed in with a laughing emoji and a single line:

Yoonchae: You’re never allowed to nap alone again 😭

You groaned dramatically, half laughing, half covering your face.

You: Okay! Okay! I get it! I’m a meme now, alright? I will never live this down!

Daniela’s reply popped up immediately.

Daniela: Good. You should enjoy it. You’ve entertained the fandom AND us. That’s a win.

You rolled your eyes, still laughing.

You: Fine, fine… but just know, next time I nap anywhere, I’m taking all of you down with me. Megan: Challenge accepted. We’ll be your blanket barricade 😎

The group chat erupted in emojis, teasing, and affectionate chaos, and you couldn’t help but grin, your embarrassment softened by the warmth of their jokes and love.

You leaned back on the couch, pulling the blanket over your shoulders once more. Even if the whole world had seen your sleepy, grumpy, adorable self plastered across memes and edits, you didn’t mind— not when it was wrapped in this much love.

Because the girls were laughing with you, teasing you endlessly, and making sure every moment—even your nap chaos—was filled with affection and warmth.

And as you settled back into your blanket cocoon, phone buzzing with laughter and emojis from the chat, you realised… maybe being a meme wasn’t so bad when the people you loved were the ones laughing with you.

You huffed quietly, adjusting the sleeve of your hoodie as you walked beside Megan. Your energy was somewhere between barely functioning and running purely on iced coffee and vibes.

Megan nudged your shoulder lightly. 'You good?'

You glanced at her, giving a small nod. 'Yeah. Just… if one more person asks me to describe the group in three words, I might actually lose it.'

That got a soft laugh out of her—quiet, just for you.

'Be creative,' she teased, her hand briefly brushing yours as you walked. 'Switch it up.'

'I did,' you muttered. 'I said ‘sleep deprived’ twice.'

This time she snorted, quickly covering it as the staff member in front of you pushed open a door.

'Alright guys, this is you.'

You stepped inside—and immediately, it felt different. The room was smaller than expected, but bright. Studio lights hung overhead, already warming the space, and the setup was simple but bold.

The floor—and the backdrop behind it—were split clean down the middle.

One side was a deep, bold red and the other a cool, saturated blue. A line ran between them like a boundary.

'Okay, that’s kinda cool.' Manon murmured, looking between the two sides.

'It’s for the game,' a producer explained, stepping forward with a friendly smile. 'You’ll be answering ‘Would You Rather’ questions by choosing a side. Red or blue.'

'Physically?' Daniela asked immediately, eyes lighting up despite her earlier complaints.

'Physically.' the producer confirmed.

'Oh, this is about to get heated.' She grinned.

You could already tell.

Staff moved around you, adjusting cameras, checking angles. A couple of them clipped mics onto your outfits, the familiar routine almost comforting at this point.

'Alright, we’re just going to get you all lined up first,' another voice called out. 'If you can step onto the marks for us.'

You looked down. Small pieces of tape were placed across the floor, spaced just enough for all of you to stand in a line—right along the divide between red and blue.

'Wait, are we starting neutral?' You asked, stepping toward your mark.

'Yeah,' the producer said. 'You’ll all start in the middle, then move depending on your answer.'

'Okay, that’s actually smart.' Yoonchae nodded, already stepping into place.

One by one, everyone shuffled into position, small adjustments and quiet chatter filling the space.

'Daniela, you’re slightly blocking—yeah, just half a step—perfect.' 'Sophia, can you turn a little toward camera two?' 'Megan, just a bit closer—yeah, that’s great.'

Megan ended up right next to you again, your shoulders almost brushing as you both settled into place. Without really thinking about it, her hand rested lightly against the back of your arm for a second—steadying, grounding—before she pulled it away like it was nothing.

You glanced sideways at her. 'Don’t copy my answers.'

She didn’t even hesitate. 'You’re going to copy mine.'

'Absolutely not.'

'Absolutely yes.'

She leaned just slightly closer, voice dropping. 'You literally always do.'

You turned your head toward her, offended. 'Name one time.'

She smiled, way too pleased with herself. 'Last interview.'

Before you could argue further, a voice cut through the room. 'Alright guys—quiet on set!'

The chatter died down almost instantly.

'Cameras ready?'

A few quick nods from behind the lights.

'Sound?'

'Sound’s good.'

The producer gave you all one last look, smiling slightly.

'Okay… whenever you’re ready, just relax. Have fun with it.'

You rolled your shoulders once, trying to shake off the last bit of fatigue. Around you, the others shifted, some already suppressing smiles, others clearly preparing to be as chaotic as possible.

You caught Megan’s eye again—just for a second. She gave you a small, reassuring look—soft, familiar. You felt her pinky briefly hook with yours at your side, quick and subtle.

And just like that, the tiredness didn’t feel quite as heavy.

'Alright.' The producer said. 'Rolling in three… two… one—'

'Hey, it’s Katseye!' You all said in unison, voices bright despite the long day.

'And we’re about to play Would You Rather with LADbible.' Sophia added smoothly, gesturing around you.

The cameras captured the full setup now—half the floor glowing red, the other half blue—your group lined up along the centre line, ready to split at any moment.

A producer off-camera called, 'Alright, first question!'

There was a brief pause.

'Would you rather have your group chat leaked… or your camera roll shared?'

There was a pause before the chaos hit.

Sophia let out a full-on scream. 'WHAT?!'

Everyone else gasped at the same time, a mix of shock and immediate regret.

'That is FOUL.' Lara said, already stepping back like she might leave the set entirely.

'No, no, no—who wrote that?' Daniela demanded, pointing accusingly toward the crew.

You just stared ahead, blinking. 'We can’t even ease into it? That’s the first question?'

Beside you, Megan leaned slightly closer, murmuring, 'Don’t even think about switching sides on me.'

You let out a small laugh. 'I’m not, relax.'

'Alright, choose your sides!' The producer called, clearly enjoying the reaction.

Almost instantly, people started moving—hesitating, doubling back, arguing mid-step.

You started toward blue—and without even looking, Megan moved with you at the exact same time, your shoulders bumping lightly as you both landed on the same side.

'Of course,' Sophia called from across the line, pointing at you both immediately. 'Of course you two are together.'

You didn’t even deny it.

You ended up on the blue side with Lara, Daniela, and Megan. Across from you, Manon, Sophia, and Yoonchae gathered on red, still looking mildly traumatised.

'Okay—group chat?' The producer clarified.

'Yeah,' Megan said, nodding firmly. 'The group chat is not worse than some of our camera rolls.'

Daniela pointed at her immediately. 'That’s true.'

'Thank you!' Megan said, like she’d just proven a major point.

You crossed your arms, nodding. 'I just don’t talk much in the group chat anyway. My camera roll… nobody wants to see that. I won’t allow it.'

Megan glanced at you, smirking slightly. 'Yeah, I’ve seen it. It’s bad.'

Your head snapped toward her. 'Okay—why are you exposing me right now?'

'I’m not exposing you,' she laughed. 'I’m supporting my argument.'

'That’s not support!'

'See!' Daniela gestured at you. 'Exactly. Some things are private.'

'Everything in my camera roll is private.' You added quickly, shooting Megan a look.

On the other side, Manon looked between you all in disbelief. 'But the group chat is where we share all of our worst photos.'

Sophia nodded, stepping closer to her. 'If you really think about it—'

'—it’s actually worse.' They finished at the same time, pointing at each other.

'Not our craziest photos.' Megan shot back instantly.

You hesitated for a second, then added, '…y’all haven’t seen my wildest photos. I can’t bring myself to share them.'

That earned a reaction.

'Oh my—what does that even mean?' Lara laughed, turning toward you.

Megan looked at you again, eyebrows slightly raised. 'Wildest?'

You avoided her gaze immediately. 'Don’t worry about it.'

'I’m worrying about it.' She said, quieter now, but amused.

'I don’t want to know.' Manon said quickly, shaking her head.

'I definitely want to know.' Daniela cut in.

Yoonchae, still standing calmly on the blue side, shrugged slightly. 'I don’t really have crazy photos.'

There was a pause. Then Megan and Lara both turned toward her at the exact same time.

'What?' Megan laughed. 'What is she talking about?'

'Yeah, what do you mean?' Lara added, incredulous.

You pointed straight at Yoonchae. 'Exactly. Yoonchae’s too pure and sensible, meanwhile I’m out here taking the most random photos of like… a bruise.'

'A bruise?' Sophia repeated, already laughing.

'Yeah!' You defended. 'Or like—something weird on the floor. Or a blurry screenshot I’ll never look at again.'

'That’s actually so true,' Daniela said, nodding. 'You do that.'

'Thank you.' You said, vindicated.

Megan bumped her shoulder lightly into yours. 'You have fourty photos of the same thing too.'

You gasped. 'That’s called getting the right angle.'

'Of what? The floor?' She shot back.

'Yes.'

'Wait, wait,' Manon cut in, pointing between you and Megan. 'So you’re saying your camera roll is worse than our group chat?' She mimed scrolling on a phone.

'Yes.' You and Megan said at the same time.

'Absolutely.' Megan added.

'Absolutely.' You echoed, a second later, trying not to smile.

From the other side, Sophia made a loud, dramatic noise. 'This is SICK. You’re literally the same person.'

The producer’s laugh could be heard faintly from behind the camera. 'Alright,' they said, trying to regain control, 'final answers locked in?'

'Unfortunately.' Sophia muttered.

'Yeah,' Lara sighed. 'I already regret this game.'

'Same.' You said.

Megan nudged your arm lightly. 'You’ll survive.'

You glanced at her, a small smile slipping through. 'Barely.'

'And it’s been one question.'

---

'Alright,' the producer called, barely holding back a smile, 'next one.'

You all reset slightly, shuffling back toward the centre line.

As you stepped back, Megan’s hand briefly found your wrist, giving it a small squeeze before letting go—like a quiet reset between rounds.

'Would you rather only be able to talk like you’re in a rap battle…'

A few of the girls were already reacting.

'…or only be able to talk like a Shakespearean character?'

There was a brief pause and then immediate movement.

Daniela was the first to move, grabbing Lara’s wrist and dragging her toward the blue side.

'Rap battle!' She declared.

'Rap battle.' Megan echoed, following right behind her—but not before glancing back at you, like she fully expected you to follow.

'Rap battle.' Lara added, laughing as she's basically dragged onto the blue side.

Manon and Yoonchae joined them pretty quickly, both nodding along.

'I think I could do it,' Manon said. 'It’d be fun.'

Meanwhile, Sophia confidently walked to the red side alone, completely unfazed. 'I think it would make me stand out.'

That left you. Still in the middle.

You giggled under your breath, half-leaning against Daniela’s shoulder as she moved away from you, leaving you momentarily stranded between both sides.

Instead of choosing, you just… stayed there. Staring into space like you were genuinely weighing your entire identity on this decision.

'Rap battle.' Megan repeated again, a little louder this time, like she was trying to pull you over by sheer will.

When you didn’t move, she tilted her head slightly, squinting at you. 'Don’t start.'

You just smiled to yourself, still planted firmly in place.

'Rap battle.' Daniela and Lara echoed, the three of them unintentionally syncing up.

You snorted a little at that, still not moving.

On the other side, Sophia lifted her chin slightly. 'Like what have the—'

'THYYY—' Daniela suddenly interrupted, dramatically pointing at her.

You lost it. A full snort-laugh escaped you, doubling over slightly. Instinctively, your hand reached out—grabbing onto Megan’s arm to steady yourself as you laughed. 'That’s the only word you know?!' You managed.

Megan laughed too, glancing down at where you were holding onto her before looking back at you, amused. 'You good?'

Daniela shrugged, completely unashamed. 'It’s the main one!'

Lara was laughing beside you now too, nudging your arm.

Sophia, trying to stay composed, continued, 'I think it would— it would… it’s kind of aura.'

'Aura?' Manon repeated, amused.

'It’s very poetic,' Lara added, still laughing. 'Everything is cryptic.'

'Yeah,' Sophia nodded, warming to her point. 'It’s cryptic, and it’d make me ponder a lot.'

She paused, then added thoughtfully, 'Maybe I’ll read more Shakespeare and actually start doing that.'

'Please don’t.' Megan said immediately.

She shifted slightly closer to you as she said it, shoulder brushing yours again like it was the most natural thing in the world.

'Actually, please do,' Daniela countered. 'I want to see that.'

The host jumped in, grinning. 'What if you’re trying to have a serious conversation and you’re just… rapping through it?'

That was all it took. Lara immediately turned to Megan, squaring up like it was real.

'Listen—' She started, bouncing slightly to a rhythm that didn’t exist.

Megan caught on instantly. 'No, you listen—'

You instinctively leaned a little toward Megan, watching her with a small smile like you already knew she was about to fully commit to this.

'Oh my god.' Yoonchae muttered, already laughing.

'It’ll be funny!' Lara insisted, fully committing now.

They both started throwing out nonsense lines, half laughing, half rapping, completely unserious.

'Yeah, I got the flow—' Megan started.

'—but you’re moving too slow—' Lara shot back.

Megan pointed at her, hyping herself up. 'Don’t test me—'

'Stoppp.' Manon groaned, covering her face.

You laughed quietly to yourself, shaking your head. 'This is embarrassing.'

Megan glanced at you immediately. 'You’re embarrassing.'

'Me?' You shot back, offended.

'Yes, you. Standing in the middle like you’re special.'

'I am special.' You replied without missing a beat.

She rolled her eyes, but there was a smile there.

The host laughed, then pointed toward you. 'What about you, Y/N? Where are you standing? Just… in the middle?'

All eyes turned to you.

You straightened slightly, glancing at the blue side—where Megan was watching you expectantly—then the red… then back at the camera.

'I can’t choose,' you admitted. 'I’m rapping in Shakespearean, I think.'

From the blue side, Megan let out a quiet, disbelieving laugh, shaking her head like she absolutely called this outcome.

'Of course you are.' Daniela said.

'Go on then,' Sophia gestured, clearly entertained. 'Let’s hear it.'

You took a small step forward—still firmly in the middle—clearing your throat like you were about to perform something serious.

Out of the corner of your eye, you could see Megan watching you now—fully focused.

Then, with full commitment,

'Thou speaks loud yet lacketh any flame, Mine bars dost strike thee down—remember mine name, From fairest tongue I spit with rhythm most divine, Thou art but background noise… whilst I outshine.'

The room was dead silent. Megan blinked once.

'What was that?!' She burst out laughing, doubling over slightly.

You grinned immediately, looking straight at her. 'That was talent.'

'No, wait—that was actually good!' Manon said, pointing at you.

Daniela just stared. 'Why do you know how to do that?'

You shrugged casually. 'Told you. Best of both worlds.'

Megan looked at you again, still smiling, a little softer now. 'You’ve been hiding that this whole time?'

You tilted your head. 'Maybe.'

Sophia looked genuinely impressed. 'See? That’s what I’m saying. That was aura.'

'Don’t encourage this.' Lara laughed.

'I’m encouraged.' You said immediately.

Megan nudged your foot lightly from across the line. 'Yeah, we can tell.'

The producer’s voice cut in again, still laughing. 'Alright—final positions?'

'Rap!' Daniela said, dragging the attention back.

'Shakespearean.' Sophia said, standing her ground alone.

'And… middle.' You added proudly.

'Of course.' The host shook their head.

Megan glanced at you one more time, still half-smiling. 'You’re so annoying.'

You smiled right back. 'You love it.'

She didn’t even hesitate. 'Unfortunately.'

From the side, Lara made a loud noise. 'UGH. Can we move on?!'

---

'Alright, next question! Would you rather be a mermaid… or be a fairy?'

There was barely even a pause before people started moving. You stepped onto the blue side with Sophia, Megan, Manon, and Lara almost instinctively.

As you settled, your arm brushed Megan’s for a second—but before it could turn into anything more, Manon leaned into you from the other side, looping her arm loosely around yours.

Across from you, Daniela and Yoonchae landed on red—and immediately looked like they were ready to fight for their lives.

'Fairy!' Daniela said, already gesturing wildly. 'Why is no one choosing fairy?!'

'Yeah!' Yoonchae backed her up, pointing at all of you. 'You can fly!'

'I love the ocean.' Lara shot back instantly from your side.

'But you can’t breathe outside.' Yoonchae argued.

Megan stepped forward like she’d just been personally attacked. 'Mermaids can do both.'

'We have special powers.' Lara added, backing her up without hesitation.

'Fairies can’t breathe underwater.' Megan continued, folding her arms like she’d just ended the debate.

You nodded along absentmindedly—but your attention wasn’t really on the argument.

Manon had leaned more comfortably against you now, her head tipping slightly toward yours as she laughed at something Daniela said.

You didn’t move away—just let it happen, still half-focused on the conversation.

From your other side, Megan went a little quieter.

'Yeah,' she said, not missing a beat in the debate, 'but what is there to discover up in the air?'

Yoonchae opened her mouth—and Sophia jumped in first.

'We’ve already gone up, up and beyond,' she said, gesturing dramatically upward. 'We haven’t gone down, down and below yet.'

There was a brief pause as that registered.

'…why did that kind of make sense?' Daniela muttered.

Meanwhile, you had completely checked out. Tucked slightly under Manon’s arm as she leaned against you, you stared straight into the camera with a blank expression.

'They’re fighting again,' you said flatly. 'We’d be insane at debate club.'

Manon giggled right next to your ear, her grip tightening slightly as she laughed.

'Honestly,' she whispered, 'we’d win everything.'

You smiled a little at that, tilting your head slightly toward hers without thinking.

From beside you, Megan glanced over. Just for a second. Then she looked back at the others, jaw tightening ever so slightly as the conversation kept going.

'Y/N,' Daniela suddenly called from across the divide, pointing at you. 'What was your reasoning?'

You didn’t even hesitate. 'I watched H2O: Just Add Water growing up,' you deadpanned. 'I wanted my profession to be a mermaid. Need I say more?'

Manon lost it, laughing into your shoulder.

Megan let out a small, disbelieving laugh—but her eyes flicked back to where Manon was still leaning on you.

'Profession?!' Megan repeated, turning toward you.

'You were going to apply for that?' Lara added, grinning.

'I had plans.' You said seriously.

'I didn’t know this would be the most divisive one.' The host said, sounding almost apologetic as the noise kept rising.

Sophia suddenly pointed at Lara. 'You and your fairy tattoo.'

'I know!' Lara said, hands up in defence. 'I love a fairy. But I’d rather be a mermaid.'

'Fake fan.' Daniela muttered.

'Excuse me?!' Lara snapped back, laughing.

'And what if I am a fairy,' Sophia started, stepping forward slightly, 'and someone mistakes me for a mosquito and just—zaps me?'

'Oh my god, that’s actually a valid concern.' You said immediately.

'Thank you!' Sophia pointed at you.

'No, because imagine,' Manon added, now fully invested, still comfortably against you, 'you’re just flying peacefully and then—'

'—psst—gone.' Megan finished, flicking her fingers.

Her tone was light—but she stepped a little closer this time. Not quite between you and Manon.

But close.

'Okay but that wouldn’t happen to me.' Daniela argued.

'Why?' You asked.

'I have presence.' Daniela said confidently.

Everyone stared at her.

'…mosquitoes also have presence.' Lara replied.

'That’s not the same thing!'

'Yes it is!'

'No, it’s not—'

'Alright, okay—' The host tried to cut in, laughing.

Too late. Everyone was talking over each other now.

'Mermaids would literally eat you—'

'They would not eat me!'

'You don’t know that!'

'You’re not even in their eco-system!'

'Exactly, so why would they trust you?!'

'Because I’m friendly?!'

'Fish don’t care if you’re friendly!'

Somewhere in the middle of the chaos, Megan moved again. This time, she stepped right up next to you—close enough that your arms brushed properly.

Her hand lightly touched your side for a second, like she was guiding you back toward her without making a big deal of it. You shifted automatically.

Manon was still mid-argument, still laughing—but as you adjusted, you naturally leaned away from her and into Megan instead.

It was subtle. Easy. Like it had always been that way.

Megan relaxed almost instantly, her shoulder pressing lightly against yours. You didn’t even look at her—just let yourself settle there, comfortable.

'Oh god,' you muttered, dragging a hand down your face as the argument spiralled. 'Let’s move on before this gets out of hand again.'

Right next to you, Megan let out a quiet laugh—way softer now.

'Again?' She echoed.

'It’s already out of hand!' Manon added from your other side, still animated.

'Okay, okay!' The producer called, clearly trying not to laugh. 'Final answers—lock them in!'

'Mermaid!' Most of you said at once.

'Fairy!' Daniela and Yoonchae insisted, still unconvinced.

You just shook your head slightly, smiling to yourself.

Megan nudged you lightly with her shoulder. 'Mermaid was the right choice.'

You glanced at her, lips tugging up a little. 'Obviously.'

From behind you, Lara made a noise. 'You two are insufferable.'

---

'Alright,' the host said, smiling as the group settled again. 'Next one.'

'Would you rather perform with Destiny’s Child… or perform with the Spice Girls?'

This time, the reactions were immediate—but way less panicked. People moved quickly.

Lara, Manon, Daniela, Yoonchae, and Sophia all gathered on the blue side without too much hesitation.

Meanwhile, you and Megan drifted over to the red side together—your arms brushing slightly as you walked, like neither of you even thought about separating.

Megan started swaying almost instantly, a weird little side-to-side motion like she was already on stage.

'I kinda wanna have some fun—' She said, dragging the words out dramatically.

You turned to her, blinking. 'Girl, what.'

Sophia cackled from across the set, pointing straight at Megan. 'LOOK AT HER—'

Megan laughed, immediately ducking behind you like you were a human shield.

You laughed too, trying to shove her away slightly. 'Don’t hide now—commit to it!'

From the other side, Daniela made a noise. 'Why is she always hiding behind you?!'

'Because that’s her emotional support person,' Lara added instantly.

'That’s SICK.' Sophia said, still laughing.

'No, literally look at them,' Manon chimed in. 'They didn’t even hesitate—same side, same spot—'

'—attached at the hip,' Yoonchae finished.

'We’re just right.' Megan shot back, peeking out from behind you again.

'Disgusting.' Daniela said, though she was smiling.

'Actually disgusting.' Lara agreed.

'No one asked.' You muttered, but you were smiling.

'You didn’t have to ask—we’re witnessing it live.' Sophia said.

'Yeah, unfortunately.' Daniela added.

'Anyway—' Lara tried to continue, still grinning, 'I love the Spice Girls. I would love to perform with both deeply.'

'Yeah,' Manon nodded. 'This one’s hard.'

'You are in London, so…' The host added casually.

There was a split second where that landed.

Megan popped her head out from behind you. 'Exactly.' She said—in a very questionable British accent.

You froze. '…no.'

From the other side, Sophia pointed again. 'OH NO—don’t encourage her—'

But it was too late. A grin spread across your face as you turned slightly toward her, lowering your voice.

'If you wanna be my lover…' You sang quietly, matching her tone—and her terrible accent.

The reaction was immediate.

'NO WAY—' Daniela shouted.

'THEY’RE DOING IT AGAIN—' Lara laughed.

Megan immediately joined in. 'You gotta get with my friends—'

'Make it last forever—'

'—friendship never ends—'

The two of you started swaying in sync now, barely holding in laughter as you continued under your breath.

Across the set, chaos.

'Oh my god, I can’t watch this—' Sophia said, covering her face.

'Why are they like this?' Yoonchae laughed.

'This is actually painful,' Daniela added, though she wasn’t looking away.

'…if you wanna be my lover—'

Now you were both doing small, exaggerated dance moves, shoulders bouncing slightly as the memory clicked into place. It wasn’t just the song. It was that performance.

Your expression shifted slightly—half amused, half nostalgic—as you started recreating a move from your trainee evaluation days.

Megan noticed instantly. 'No way—' She laughed, joining in.

From across the line, Manon pointed aggressively. 'SEE—THIS IS WHAT I MEAN—'

'They’re in their own world!' Lara yelled.

'HELLO? We’re still filming!' Daniela added.

Both of you were now fully committing—bad British accents, exaggerated choreo, completely unserious.

Across the set, Lara scream-laughed. 'OH MY GOD—'

'MAKE IT STOP—' Sophia added.

'No, keep going.' Yoonchae said, fully entertained.

That snapped you out of it. Immediate regret.

You let out a small, embarrassed groan, quickly stepping forward and wrapping your arms around Megan from behind, hiding your face against her shoulder.

'Nope. No. I’m done.'

The reaction was instant.

'OH MY GOD—' Daniela yelled.

'THERE IT IS AGAIN—' Lara pointed.

'They’re actually unbearable.' Sophia said, laughing.

'This is insane behaviour.' Manon added.

Megan laughed, not even trying to move away. She just reached back slightly, holding your arms where they were wrapped around her, giving them a couple of light pats.

It was gentle—automatic.

'LOOK AT THAT—' Yoonchae pointed. 'She didn’t even react! That’s normal for them!'

'Yeah, that’s routine.' Daniela said.

'That’s muscle memory.' Lara added.

'It was good!' Manon called out, still laughing.

'No it wasn’t.' You mumbled into Megan’s shoulder.

'It was accurate.' Daniela added.

'That’s worse!'

Megan was still smiling, glancing back at you. 'We ate that, actually.'

From the side, Sophia made a loud noise. 'YOU DID NOT—'

You lifted your head just enough to look at her. '…we did not.'

'We did.'

'Stop lying.'

'I’m not—'

'Alright!' The host cut in, laughing. 'Final answers locked?'

'Destiny’s Child!' Most of them said again.

'Spice Girls.' Megan said confidently.

You sighed, reluctantly letting go of her and stepping back into place—but not before your hand brushed hers again for a second.

'…Spice Girls.' You repeated, still a little embarrassed—but smiling.

From the blue side, Daniela shook her head. 'I’m actually sick of you two.'

'Same.' Sophia added.

Lara nodded. 'Like… happy for you. But also—'

'—break up.' Yoonchae finished.

Manon just laughed. 'No, don’t break up. Just… maybe stand on different sides once?'

Megan didn’t even look away from you. 'No.'

You smiled slightly. 'No.'

'See?!' Daniela shouted.

---

'Okay,' the host said, glancing at the next card. 'This one might get interesting.'

You were already suspicious.

'Would you rather accidentally post your drafts… or accidentally like your ex’s post?'

'…ohhhhhhhhhhh.' The sound left you slowly, long and deeply pained, like you’d just been personally attacked.

'No,' you added immediately after. 'No, I don’t like this one.'

Around you, everyone was reacting at once again—groans, laughter, dramatic pacing.

'Okay, choose your sides!'

Movement split the group quickly. Daniela, Megan, Sophia, Lara, and Yoonchae all drifted toward the red side.

Manon stepped onto blue. You didn’t even hesitate—you went straight to her.

'Hell no,' you said, grabbing onto her arm and pulling it to your chest like it was the safest place on earth. 'Nahh.'

You shook your head aggressively, already backing further onto the blue side.

'You better shoot me before you catch me stalking my ex.' You mumbled into her shoulder.

Manon let out a soft laugh, tilting her head slightly to rest against yours for a second, rubbing gently like she understood more than you were saying out loud.

Across the line, Megan had started to say something—but stopped. Her expression shifted slightly as she watched you. Not confused. Just… attentive.

'Okay, okay,' Daniela said from across the line, thinking it through. 'Depends which ex… but I think I’m over here.'

'See?' Lara added. 'But it’s whatever—it’s an accident. Literally everyone has done it.'

You didn’t even look at them.

'Nope,' you muttered. 'Couldn’t be me.'

Megan’s eyes flicked down to the way you were holding onto Manon—arms wrapped tight, tucked in, smaller than usual.

She pressed her lips together slightly, thinking.

'What about stalking your ex’s new partner?' The host added.

That made people pause.

'THAT’S—' Lara started.

'Oh, that’s really bad.' Daniela finished at the exact same time.

Both of them winced.

'Yeah.' Manon murmured quietly beside you.

Megan glanced at you again. You hadn’t moved.

'But what about your, like… current partner’s ex?' Lara continued, now fully spiralling. 'Like when you stalk them.'

She looked genuinely stressed now. 'That’s bad.'

'I don’t think that’s as bad.' Megan said, shrugging slightly—but her voice was a little quieter now.

Sophia nodded. 'Yeah, same.'

Lara turned to them like they’d just betrayed her. 'What do you mean it’s not as bad?'

Megan smiled a little. 'I think it’s kind of endearing.'

'Endearing?!' Lara repeated, staring at her.

Megan’s eyes flicked to you again—just for a second—before she continued.

'Yeah!' she said, still light, but a little more deliberate now. 'If I was dating someone and they liked my ex’s post, I’d be like—' she softened her voice teasingly, '‘awww, you’re a little jealous.’'

'NO,' Lara said immediately. 'No, no, no—that is not cute!'

'It’s a little cute.' Sophia insisted.

'It is not cute!'

While they argued, you stayed exactly where you were—arms still wrapped around Manon’s, not moving an inch. You glanced briefly toward the others… then back down.

'I stand by my decision,' you said quietly. 'I think that’s pretty self-explanatory.'

Manon shifted slightly beside you, her arm still secure in your hold.

'Yeah,' she said gently. 'Fair.'

Across from you, Megan’s gaze lingered a second longer. There was a flicker of something there—something softer than jealousy, but sitting right next to it.

She hesitated. Then took a small step forward—like she might cross over. But Daniela started talking again, and the moment passed.

Across the set, the chaos kept going.

'You’re telling me you wouldn’t overthink that for days—'

'I would not!'

'You’re lying!'

'Okay but accidentally posting your drafts is worse—'

'No it’s not—what do you even have in there?!'

You exhaled softly, shaking your head just a little, a small smile creeping back in despite everything.

'Alright,' the host said, trying to regain control again. 'Didn't mean to cause an argument today. That's my bad.'

'No, you're good. This happens most days. I think its healthy.' You clarify for the poor woman who looks a little too stressed.

She laughs lightly before glancing down at her card prompts. 'Okay, moving on...'

As the attention shifted away, Megan finally moved.

Not enough to make a scene—just a small step closer to the centre line again, her eyes flicking back to you one more time. Still checking. Still a little concerned.

---

'Would you rather never wear makeup again… or never style your hair again?'

There was a brief pause—then a wave of very immediate reactions.

'Never style my hair again.' Megan said instantly, already stepping onto the red side like there was no other option.

'No hesitation?' Manon laughed.

'None.' Megan confirmed.

On the blue side, Sophia and Lara moved at the same time.

'Never wear makeup again.' Sophia said, nodding.

'Same.' Lara added.

Yoonchae joined them a second later, thoughtful but agreeing. Manon followed, glancing between both sides before committing.

That left you and Daniela. Both of you still standing directly in the middle.

'…this is hard.' Daniela muttered.

'For me,' Sophia continued, already explaining, 'I could have the best makeup—but if my hair is a mess, I’ll look not put together.'

'That’s true.' Lara nodded.

'Especially with curly hair,' Daniela added, gesturing to herself. 'You need to style it.'

You tilted your head slightly, thinking. 'I just feel like makeup hates my skin,' you said honestly. 'So in turn, I hate makeup… and my hair is somewhat okay on its own.'

You gave a small shrug. 'Can I live without both? I think, honestly, I’d thrive.'

That got a laugh out of Yoonchae. She stepped out from the blue side, coming to stand next to you in the middle. 'I agree.' She said simply.

'There we go.' You nodded, like you’d just formed a new team.

'I… relate to you with that,' Megan said, looking over at you, 'but I actually kinda feel the opposite.'

She gestured to herself. 'I can’t style my hair without doing makeup.'

'Really?' Lara asked.

'Yeah,' Megan nodded. 'It just doesn’t feel finished.'

She hesitated for a second, then added, a little quieter, 'Also… your skin is just like—' she gestured vaguely toward you, half-smiling, 'you don’t even need make-up. I’m kind of jealous, not gonna lie.'

There was a tiny pause. You looked at her properly then.

'Hey,' you said, softer now, 'I love your skin just the way it is.'

Megan blinked slightly, caught off guard. Before she could respond—

'UGH—' Daniela made a loud gagging noise.

'Oh my god, I’m going to be sick—' Sophia added dramatically.

'Can you not do this right now?' Lara laughed.

'Shut up.' You muttered, trying not to smile.

'I’m serious!' Daniela continued. 'This is not the time for that!'

'This is a workplace!' Sophia added.

'We’re filming!' Lara said.

From the red side, Megan just shook her head, smiling a little to herself now—still looking at you.

'I could put it up in a bun.' Daniela suggested, trying to get things back on track.

'That’s still styling though.' Megan replied immediately, but her tone was lighter again.

Daniela froze. '…oh. So I’d just have to wake up,' she continued slowly, 'and walk around with my hair as is?'

'Yeah.' Megan said, way too casually. 'I mean,' she added, 'I feel like you can brush it. There’s nothing against that, I don’t think.'

Daniela turned to her. 'I can’t even brush my hair—it’s curly. I got no choice.'

'That’s true.' Lara said, nodding again.

'You’d just wake up and accept your fate.' Sophia added.

'I don’t like that fate.' Daniela said flatly.

You snorted quietly beside Yoonchae. 'Middle gang is thriving.' You muttered.

'We are.' She agreed.

Across from you, Manon laughed. 'You guys just don’t want to commit.'

'We’ve evolved past the need to choose.' You replied. 'We’d survive either way.'

The host smiles. 'Some would argue that's the only correct answer.'

Everyone turns to look at Daniela expectantly. 'And where are you standing, Daniela?' The host asks.

Daniela nodded. 'Yeah, I’m still thinking.'

'Of course you are.' Megan laughed.

Her eyes flicked back to you again—just briefly—but this time there was something softer sitting there.

---

'Alright, next one!'

You all shifted back into place, a little looser now, conversations overlapping as the host read the card.

'Would you rather speak every language… or play every instrument?'

This time, the split happened pretty naturally. You stepped onto the blue side with Daniela and Yoonchae.

Across from you, Manon, Megan, Lara, and Sophia grouped on red.

Sophia didn’t even wait. 'Play every instrument,' she said confidently. 'Because music is communication.'

You blinked at her. 'Girl…' you tilted your head. 'What do you think knowing every language is then?'

A few of the girls laughed.

'It’s the way we communicate with the world.' Sophia shot back, like she’d just made a ground-breaking point.

'Because that’s easy to learn.' Yoonchae added, casually pointing at them.

There was a pause.

'... easy to learn?' Manon repeated, turning to Megan.

'Easy?' Megan echoed, both of them looking at Yoonchae like she’d just said the most insane thing of the day.

Yoonchae just shrugged. 'It takes time, but—'

'Time?!' Daniela cut in, stepping forward slightly. 'You can speak to anybody you want in the entire world. You’ll know every single language, anywhere you go.'

'Exactly.' You nodded.

'But here,' Lara jumped in, gesturing to their side, 'we can create anything.'

Sophia nodded along with her. 'That’s what I’m saying.'

You looked between them… then back at your side… then back at them again.

'…okay but imagine this.' You started, stepping forward slightly.

They quieted down just enough to listen.

'How sexy would it be for me to just suddenly be able to speak Tagalog,' you pointed at Sophia, 'and have a full-on conversation with Soph.'

Sophia’s expression immediately softened.

Before you could continue, Megan leaned forward slightly from the other side, eyes on you. 'Okay, but talk to me in Chinese then.'

You blinked, caught off guard for a second. 'Right now?' You asked, raising an eyebrow.

'Yeah.' She nodded, like it was obvious. 'Go on.'

'She said if she could—' Lara started.

'I’m testing the concept.' Megan cut in, not taking her eyes off you.

'You’re so annoying.' You muttered, but there was a smile tugging at your lips.

'Just a little bit.' She shrugged.

You shook your head, then continued anyway—

'Or Hindi?' You added, pointing at Lara.

She raised an eyebrow, still watching the two of you.

'Or German, Korean, and so on—' You continued, pointing around at the others one by one.

Megan tilted her head slightly, still looking at you. 'Still waiting, by the way.'

'You’re not getting it for free.' You shot back.

That earned a laugh from Manon.

There was a small pause as it all sank in. You shrugged slightly, voice a little quieter now. 'Guess I only picked this side so I could talk to them in their native languages. Be some sort of comfort.'

It was silent for a few seconds.

'Awwwwww, Y/NNN!' Sophia cooed instantly, hand over her heart.

Manon smiled, 'That’s actually really cute.'

Daniela nodded, 'Yeah, that’s a good reason.'

Yoonchae gave you a small approving nod too.

Megan’s expression softened a little too—but she still added, 'Still waiting for my Chinese, by the way.'

You glanced at her. 'Later.'

She smiled slightly at that. 'I’ll remember that.'

'Yeah, whatever.' Lara said loudly, breaking the moment as she laughed.

You turned to her, narrowing your eyes with your hand over your chest in mock hurt. 'Wow.'

'I’m joking!' She grinned. 'That was cute. Don’t get used to it.'

'Too late,' Megan added. 'That was very wholesome.'

'Yeah,' Sophia nodded. 'You can’t take it back now.'

You rolled your eyes slightly, but there was a small smile there anyway.

'Alright, alright,' the host cut in, clearly amused. 'Are we ready to move on?'

You glanced across at them one more time, shaking your head. 'Y’all are missing out.' You muttered.

'Or you are.' Lara shot back.

'Debatable. But… we’d all make it work anyway.'

The others nod, some reluctantly, some amused.

The host smiles. 'That’s a very Katseye answer.'

---

'Alright, next!' The host called, already smiling like they knew this would be easy.

'Would you rather forget lyrics on stage… or forget choreo?'

'—ohhh lyrics.'

It wasn’t even co-ordinated, but somehow everyone said it at the same time—already moving toward the blue side in one messy wave.

'No hesitation.' Manon laughed as you all crowded together.

'None,' Megan added. 'Absolutely none.'

The chatter started instantly, everyone talking over each other.

'Yeah, it’s dangerous if one forgets choreo.' Lara said, gesturing as she spoke.

'Yeah,' you nodded quickly, squeezing in beside her, 'there’s always too much happening—one of us would go flying.'

'Exactly!' Daniela added. 'Like, actually injured.'

'And then we all go down,' Sophia said. 'It’s a chain reaction.'

'Domino effect.' Yoonchae nodded.

'Whereas with lyrics—' Megan started.

'—you can just hold the mic outwards.' You finished, miming it, arm stretched toward an imaginary crowd.

A few of them laughed.

'Yeah!' Lara pointed at you. 'Just let the fans sing.'

'Exactly,' you said. 'team effort.'

The host looked between all of you, clearly amused. 'So choreo’s a health and safety nightmare… whereas lyrics is kind of—'

'Recoverable.' Sophia said.

'Manageable.' Manon added.

'Survivable.' Daniela nodded.

As everyone kept talking, the energy softened just slightly.

Sophia had shifted closer behind Lara, resting her head lightly against her shoulder. Without really thinking about it, you joined in and leaned on Sophia from behind as well, your head settling comfortably against hers.

She didn’t even react verbally—just lifted her hand, gently holding your head in place and absentmindedly massaging it.

You let out a quiet exhale, still half-listening to the others. 'Yeah,' you murmured, almost to yourself. 'I can survive forgetting lyrics.'

'Same.' Megan said, glancing over.

Her voice was casual—but her eyes lingered.

She watched you for a second longer than necessary, taking in the way you’d gone all soft and quiet, tucked into Sophia like it was the most natural thing in the world.

A small smile pulled at her lips—unconscious, fond. She shook her head slightly to herself, like she didn’t even realise she was doing it.

'Alright,' the host laughed, clapping once. 'I think this might be our first unanimous answer.'

You nodded slightly, a small smile on your face. 'Finally something we can all agree on.'

Megan glanced at you again, that same soft expression still there.

'Yeah.' She murmured, mostly to herself.

---

'Would you rather it’s always day… or always night?'

'—always night!'

The answer echoed out almost instantly. Manon, Sophia, Daniela, Yoonchae, and Megan all moved to the red side in one confident wave.

You didn’t move. Neither did Lara. The two of you stayed planted in the middle, both looking like you were actually taking this one seriously.

'I…' Lara started, tilting her head slightly. 'Okay, here’s my thing. I love the night time—deeply—but I love the sun. And I need the sun. It gives me joy and energy.'

You nodded slowly. 'Yeah…'

There was a pause. Then Daniela frowned slightly from the other side. '…you’re so right.'

She walked over.

Manon followed right after. 'Wait, yeah.'

Just like that, the balance shifted.

You exhaled, still thinking. 'Like… okay,' you started, glancing between both sides. 'I love my sleep, right? So if it was always night, I’d probably just end up hibernating—like, you’d never see me again.'

A few of them laughed.

'I’d fully ruin my sleep schedule and disappear,' you added. 'But the sun actually gives me energy, so… I think I have to be on this side.'

You stepped over to blue with Lara, Daniela, and Manon.

'I like the night air better.' Yoonchae said from across the line.

'Me too,' Sophia nodded. 'I like seeing the stars and the moon.'

You pointed at her immediately. 'That’s a good point—I love stargazing.'

'Exactly.' She said, satisfied.

'You can’t even see the stars in LA.' Manon added from your side.

'Right?' Daniela nodded. 'But the beach, like the sun—you can’t tan!'

'Girl, I’m not tryna tan.' Megan shot back instantly.

You glanced between them as the volume started rising again.

'I much prefer—yeah I’m tryna tannnn,' Lara said, dragging the word out dramatically. 'You know what I mean—I wanna be melanated and joyful.'

'There’s self-tanner.' Megan replied, completely unimpressed.

'That’s not the same!'

'Yes it is!'

'No it’s not—'

You physically turned your head back and forth, watching them like a tennis match.

'Sun is better for your mental health—'

'Night is peaceful!'

'Sunrise is peaceful!'

'So is midnight!'

'Midnight is when problems happen!'

'Sunburn is a problem!'

'Oh my god—' You slowly took a step back from the group, lowering your voice. '…what is going on.' You muttered to yourself.

Right on cue, the host’s voice cut through the chaos. Everyone paused mid-argument.

'Okay! Have we got our answers?'

'Yup, night time all the way.' Megan says.

'We're partying up in the sun over this way!' Daniela bounces back.

'Make sure you put sun screen on then!' Sophia reminds everyone.

You just shake your head, a quiet giggle slipping out as the noise builds again around you.

The host laughs, glancing between both sides. 'Yeah… I’m not even gonna try to settle that. I’ll just mark that as… completely divided.'

You let out a small sigh, shaking your head. 'You’re all making her job harder, you know.' You mumble, gesturing toward the host with a teasing look.

'WE’RE JUST PASSIONATE!' Daniela blurts—far louder than necessary.

You jolt instantly, shoulders jumping as you duck behind Lara without even thinking, gripping onto her arm.

Lara snorts, barely holding it together. 'Daniela, indoor voice—please.'

'Sorry!' Daniela says, immediately softer this time, hands coming up in surrender.

You peek out from behind Lara, still clinging slightly. '…See?' You mutter, half laughing. 'Danger.'

'Okay! Final question! Would you rather have the power of teleportation… or telepathy?'

'—ooohhhhh, teleportation, one million percent—excuse me—girl move.' You were quick to choose your answer, gently shoving the girls so you could get to where you wanted to be.

'Wait, wait—what’s telepathy again?' Yoonchae asked, looking between everyone.

'Reading minds.' Sophia explained.

'No, wait—is that telekinesis?' Megan cut in.

'No—telekinesis is moving things.' Lara said.

'Then what’s—'

'It doesn’t matter!' You cut through, still trying to squeeze past them. 'Teleportation!'

'Hold on, hold on,' the host laughed. 'Let’s change it—teleportation… or telekinesis.'

'OH,' Daniela said. 'Okay, that’s different.'

This time, people moved with more intention. You stepped straight onto the blue side with Lara, Manon, Sophia, and Daniela.

Across from you, Megan and Yoonchae stood on red.

'Telekinesis?' Yoonchae said, nodding. 'I love telekinesis.'

'Yeah, its cool.' Megan agreed.

'No but teleportation,' Sophia jumped in, already trying to convince them. 'You could go to Korea and then just jump back to LA. No flights.'

Yoonchae paused. '…oh. That’s true.'

You stepped forward slightly, fully invested now. 'Yeah, imagine tour,' you said. 'We wouldn’t have to leave countries early—we’d actually have time to explore. And then we could just suddenly—poof—be somewhere else.'

Manon immediately pointed at you. 'Retweet.'

'Right?!' You said.

'But what else are you supposed to do with teleportation?' Megan started, still unsure. 'Like, if I needed to grab something—'

'Yeah!' Sophia backed her up, before pausing.

'Think about it,' Lara cut in, stepping forward like she was about to deliver a speech. 'Teleportation is so practical—what Y/N said, but also…'

She started counting on her fingers. 'Say you’re about to get kidnapped. There’s a tsunami. Someone’s breaking into your house—'

'Why is it always so extreme?' Daniela laughed.

'—you just teleport elsewhere!' Lara finished, ignoring her.

There was a beat.

Megan blinked. '…you’re so right, oh my god.'

And just like that, she walked over.

'NO WAY.' You laughed.

'That was fast.' Sophia added.

'And like,' you continued, gesturing toward Manon, 'some of our families don't even live in LA—imagine just going home. Like back to Switzerland whenever you want.'

Manon nodded immediately. 'Yeah. I’d be gone every other hour.'

'Exactly,' you said. 'Ugh, someone invent it now please—I wanna teleport so bad.'

'For real,' Sophia added. 'We wouldn’t even have to deal with LA traffic.'

'That alone—' Daniela shook her head. 'Sold.'

'Okay, okay,' the host laughed, stepping in as the group settled. 'Final agreement?'

'Teleportation!' Most of you called.

Even Yoonchae hesitated… then slowly stepped over. 'Okay… teleportation.'

'YESS.' Sophia cheered.

'There we go,' the host smiled. 'Final agreement. Thank you, guys—big round of applause, that was so much fun.'

'Thank you! That was fun.' You all said together, clapping as the energy softened.

The cameras kept rolling for a few seconds longer—little laughs, people stepping off their marks, chatting quietly.

'Wait, I’m still thinking about the kidnapping scenario.' Megan said.

'Why was that your deciding factor?' Manon laughed.

'Because it was convincing!'

You shook your head, smiling to yourself as you stepped away from the set. Megan fell into step behind you almost immediately—like she always did.

Your hands found each other without looking, fingers brushing before loosely linking.

You walked slightly ahead of her, guiding the direction without thinking. Behind you, Megan’s grip shifted—her hand slipping from yours just enough for one of her fingers to hook into the belt loop of your jeans instead.

It was light. Absentminded. Like she just needed to stay connected.

You didn’t even question it. Just kept walking, a small smile tugging at your lips as the noise of the set faded behind you.

---

The studio doors finally swung open, a cool rush of London air hitting you all at once as you stepped out onto the pavement.

'Alright, straight into the van, guys.' Missy called, guiding you toward the next stop.

It was darker now—streetlights glowing, the city buzzing in that quiet, late-evening way that somehow felt calmer than the day.

You exhaled, shoulders dropping slightly as you walked alongside the group.

Almost immediately, Megan drifted closer to your side again—like it was instinct.

'I’m just saying, fairies have range.' Daniela continued, still fully invested.

'Oh my god, not this again.' Sophia groaned.

'No, because you guys completely dismissed the flying aspect—'

'We did not dismiss it!' Manon argued.

'Yes you did!'

'Mermaids are still better!' Lara called back over her shoulder.

You let out a quiet breath, your energy finally catching up to you. Without thinking, you leaned slightly into Megan’s side as you walked.

'I’m so over this debate.' You mumbled.

Megan glanced down at you immediately, her expression softening. 'Yeah?' She asked, quieter than the chaos around you.

'Yeah.'

She didn’t hesitate—just shifted a little closer, her shoulder pressing more firmly against yours.

'You did good today.' She added under her breath.

You huffed a small laugh. 'We argued about mermaids for ten minutes.'

'Exactly.' She said. 'Important work.'

That got a real smile out of you.

Behind you, the argument carried on like nothing had changed.

'But fairies are more versatile—'

'How?!'

'They literally fly!'

'So do planes!'

'That’s not the same thing—'

You shook your head slightly, smiling to yourself as the van door slid open. One by one, everyone started piling in, still talking, still laughing, still arguing.

Megan let the others go ahead first.

Her hand found yours again—fingers slipping between yours like it was second nature. You stepped up into the van, still holding onto her, but she didn’t let go—instead, her grip shifted slightly as she followed behind you.

Just before you moved further in, you felt it—one of her fingers hooking loosely into your belt loop again, tugging you back just a fraction.

You glanced over your shoulder. She was already looking at you. A small smile. Soft. Tired. You shook your head a little, but your lips curved up anyway.

'Come on.' You murmured.

'I am.' She said.

You guided her further into the van, hands still connected, her finger still hooked there like she needed the contact. You ended up settling into your seat side by side, your knee knocking lightly against hers as the others filled in around you.

The noise carried on—Daniela still arguing, Lara laughing, Sophia trying, and failing, to mediate.

But it felt quieter somehow. Warmer.

Megan leaned back into her seat, her shoulder pressing lightly into yours again. You didn’t move away.

Another interview. Another round of chaos.

But for now, you were warm, comfortable, and exactly where you wanted to be.

'That’s not character, that’s hypothermia.' Manon added, exhaling into her hands before rubbing them together again.

Yoonchae was practically curled into herself on the floor, sleeves pulled over her hands as she tried to trap any warmth she could. 'I can’t feel my fingers…'

Sophia was near the speaker, hopping lightly from foot to foot. 'We should start moving, that’ll warm us up.'

'No,' Daniela shot back immediately. 'I refuse to dance until I can feel my toes again.'

The door creaked open. All of them turned.

You stepped in like it was any other day. Joggers. Loose top. Bag slung over your shoulder. No hoodie. No jacket. Nothing.

The girls went silent immediately.

'…What?' You asked, pausing just inside the door as all six of them stared at you.

Daniela blinked slowly. 'Why are you dressed like that?'

You glanced down at yourself. '…Like what?'

'Like it’s summer.' Lara said, gesturing toward you with a scarf-wrapped arm.

'It’s freezing.' Yoonchae added, her voice small but very serious.

You frowned slightly, stepping further inside and letting the door shut behind you. 'Is it?'

Six faces stared at you in disbelief.

'Yes.' Manon said flatly.

You shrugged, slipping your bag off your shoulder and dropping it by the wall. 'My apartment was warm.'

'That doesn’t explain anything.' Sophia said, though she was smiling a little.

You didn’t think much of it. Just shrugged absentmindedly and started stretching, like always.

The girls, however, went straight back to trying not to freeze to death.

Daniela resumed pacing. Yoonchae stayed curled up. Lara tightened her hold on the scarf. Sophia kept moving to stay warm. Megan sat curled against the mirror. Manon shook out her hands.

And you— you just stretched. Completely unbothered.

A few minutes passed. The room filled with quiet complaints, soft groans, and the occasional dramatic sigh.

Then there were footsteps. You didn’t look up as someone approached from behind, too focused on loosening your shoulders. A second later, there was a light weight settling against your back.

Lara. You can tell by the scent of her perfume. She didn’t say anything at first. Just leaned into you, her forehead pressing between your shoulder blades as she let out a long breath.

'Warmth…' She mumbled.

You blinked mid-stretch. '…What?'

But she didn’t answer right away. Instead, her arms slowly wrapped around your waist from behind.

'…Wait.'

There was a pause.

'Why are you so warm?'

You let out a small, confused laugh. 'I don’t know? I just am.'

Lara pulled back slightly, hands still gripping your sides as she leaned around to look at you.

'No, like—' she pressed her palm against your arm, eyes widening slightly. 'You’re actually warm.'

That caught attention.

'What?' Daniela turned immediately.

'Don’t lie.' Manon said, though she was already walking over.

Megan lifted her head slightly. 'What’s happening?'

'She’s warm.' Lara said, like she’d just discovered something life-changing.

You snorted. 'Everyone’s warm, Lara.'

Lara leaned back just enough to look at you properly, her eyes narrowed like she was trying to solve something.

Then without warning, she grabbed onto your arm. 'Come here.'

'Lara—'

She pulled. Your balance shifted immediately, your hands catching yourself as she dragged you slightly across the floor with surprising determination.

'Lara—what are you doing—'

'Daniela,' she called, not stopping. 'Feel her.'

Daniela turned mid-complaint. 'Feel wh—'

Lara shoved your arm toward her. Daniela grabbed it automatically and froze.

'…Why are you so hot?' She said.

'I’m... I'm not—'

'You are,' she interrupted, still holding your arm like she didn’t quite believe it. 'Why are you so warm?'

You pulled your arm back slightly. 'I’m normal.'

'No, you’re not.' Lara said immediately, already scooting closer to you again.

From the side, Yoonchae had slowly gotten up, curiosity pulling her closer.

'…Can I check?' She asked quietly.

You looked at her, then at the others. 'Uh… sure?'

She reached out carefully, touching your sleeve. Her eyes widened almost instantly. 'You’re really warm…' She murmured.

Manon stepped closer next, more composed, but clearly curious now. She brushed her hand briefly against your other arm.

A small pause. '…That is not normal.' She said simply.

You let out a small laugh, shaking your head. 'Why is everyone acting like I’m a science experiment?'

'Because you kind of are right now.' Daniela said.

Behind you, Lara had already re-attached herself. This time without hesitation. She leaned fully into your back again, arms wrapping around you tighter than before.

'Don’t move.' She said.

You sighed, but there was a smile in it now. '…You’re really committing to this.'

'I was cold,' she replied simply, voice muffled slightly against your back. 'I’m just nice now.'

That made you laugh properly.

From across the room, Sophia shook her head. 'That’s actually kind of genius.'

Megan finally pushed herself off the wall. Not rushing. Just walking over slowly.

She didn’t say anything at first. Just stopped beside you and watched. Then, quietly she reached out and tapped your arm. Lightly. Testing.

Her brows lifted, just slightly. '…Huh.'

You glanced up at her. 'What?'

She shook her head a little, like she was filing the information away. '…Strange.'

But she didn’t move far after that. Just stayed nearby. Close enough.

Meanwhile, Lara tightened her hold on you again. 'You’re not allowed to leave.' She declared.

'I just got here.' You said.

'Good.'

Daniela crossed her arms, still eyeing you. 'This is actually insane.'

Manon nodded once. 'Useful, though.'

Yoonchae hovered close, not quite leaning this time, but definitely staying within range of your warmth.

You looked around at all of them, still slightly confused—but amused now. '…You guys are weird.'

'Maybe.' Lara said into your back. 'But you’re warm.'

You huffed out a quiet laugh, shaking your head as you tried to lean forward again.

It didn’t really work. Not with Lara attached.

'Can I continue stretching or am I just stuck like this now?' You asked.

'No.' She said immediately.

Daniela snorted. 'You’ve been claimed.'

You twisted slightly to look at her. 'Hey! I’m not an object.'

'Debatable,' she replied. 'Right now you’re a heater.'

From beside you, Megan let out a small breath that almost sounded like a laugh.

You glanced at her. She didn’t say anything—just looked away, like she hadn’t meant to react.

Yoonchae hovered awkwardly near your side. 'Are you… actually not cold at all?'

You shook your head. 'Not really.'

Manon tilted her head slightly, observing you like she was still trying to figure it out. 'That’s impressive.'

Lara squeezed you again. 'Don’t move.' She repeated.

'I have to move,' you laughed. 'We’re literally here to rehearse.'

'Five more minutes.' She bargained.

Before you could argue, the studio door opened again. Everyone froze.

Your choreographer stepped in, already mid-sentence as he glanced down at his phone—then stopped.

His eyes lifted. Took in the scene. You on the floor. Lara attached to your back. Daniela standing there like she’d just witnessed something life-changing. Yoonchae hovering. Manon watching. Sophia halfway across the room. Megan standing close by.

There was a brief pause.

'…I’m not gonna to ask.' He said flatly.

The room went dead silent.

Lara didn’t move. You closed your eyes briefly. '…Yeah that’s probably for the best.'

He nodded once. 'Good. Warm up properly and let’s start from the top.'

'Lara.' You said.

'No.'

'Lara.'

She groaned dramatically but finally let go, her arms sliding off you as she leaned back with a sigh like she’d just lost something important.

'I was comfortable…'

'You’ll survive.' Daniela said, already moving back into position.

You pushed yourself up from the floor, stretching your arms out again properly this time.

'Barely.' Lara muttered, but she stood anyway, tugging her hoodie sleeves down over her hands again.

The group slowly reset.

Sophia moved to her spot, clapping lightly. 'Okay, lets focus.'

Manon rolled her shoulders back, posture straightening. Yoonchae shuffled into place, still glancing at you every now and then. Daniela bounced lightly on her feet, shaking out the cold. Megan stepped into formation too.

Then the music started. And just like that, you were dancing. The cold didn’t matter as much once you started moving. It never really did.

But still, between transitions, between counts, you caught it.

The way Lara drifted closer during breaks. The way Yoonchae stood just slightly within your space. The way Daniela brushed past you like she was 'accidentally' checking again.

Even Megan, quiet and subtle, stayed near. Not touching. Not obvious. Just… there.

By the time the first run-through ended, everyone was breathing heavier, bodies finally warming up from movement.

Lara immediately dropped to the floor again. 'I’m going back.' She declared, already reaching for you.

You laughed, stepping back just in time. 'No—absolutely not.'

'Traitor.'

Daniela pointed at you. 'You can’t just have warmth and not share it.'

'I didn’t realise this was my responsibility.' You shot back.

Manon crossed her arms, a small smirk on her face. 'It is now.'

Yoonchae nodded seriously. 'Yeah.'

You looked around at all of them. At the way they were watching you now. Different.

And you sighed. Smiling anyway. '…I’ve created a problem.'

Megan, standing beside you, glanced over briefly. '…Yeah,' she said quietly, 'you have.'

And somehow, even with the cold still lingering in the studio, it didn’t feel quite as bad anymore.

Because now they knew. And they weren’t letting you forget it.

---

Sophia’s apartment was quieter than the rehearsal studio. Softer, too.

The kind of space that immediately made you relax the second you stepped inside—warm lighting, blankets thrown over the couch, the faint smell of something sweet lingering in the air.

Except, it wasn’t actually warm.

'Okay,' Sophia said, setting down a stack of bowls on the coffee table, 'before anyone complains—my heating is broken.'

A chorus of groans filled the room.

'You’re joking.' Daniela said, already hugging herself.

'I wish,' Sophia replied. 'Maintenance said they’ll fix it tomorrow.'

Lara immediately grabbed one of the blankets off the couch. 'I’m not surviving this.'

Manon shook her head slightly, though she reached for a blanket too. 'It’s not that bad.'

Yoonchae was already wrapping herself up like she was preparing for winter. 'It is.'

Megan, standing near the couch, pulled the sleeves of her hoodie over her hands, shoulders hunching slightly.

'…Why is it colder inside than outside?' She muttered.

You, meanwhile, didn’t think much of it.

'Feels fine to me.' You said casually, kicking your shoes off and heading toward the floor.

Six heads turned.

'…Of course you’d say that.' Daniela muttered.

You just laughed lightly, dropping down onto the rug in front of the coffee table, grabbing a slice of pizza without a second thought.

The others settled in behind you. Couch claimed, blankets distributed, bodies instinctively closer together for warmth.

Lara tucked her legs under herself, wrapped tight in her blanket. Yoonchae sat curled beside her. Daniela leaned into the armrest, hoodie sleeves pulled over her hands. Manon sat more composed, but still wrapped up.

Sophia hovered for a moment before settling at the end. Megan dropped down beside Daniela, tucking one leg under herself as she adjusted her hoodie and leaned slightly closer to the others for warmth.

The movie started. You were already focused on it. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, pizza in hand, completely relaxed. Unbothered. The cold didn’t register to you the same way it did to them. It never really did.

Behind you, though, it was a different story.

'Why is it getting colder?' Daniela whispered like the room itself was plotting against her.

'It’s been five minutes.' Sophia whispered back.

Lara leaned closer to Yoonchae. 'I can’t feel my toes again.'

Yoonchae nodded seriously. 'Same.'

Megan tugged her sleeves further over her hands, shoulders curling in slightly. '…My hands are freezing.'

Manon didn’t say anything. But she adjusted her blanket slightly tighter around her shoulders. And then her eyes briefly flicked to you.

Still sitting there. In a t-shirt. Completely fine.

About twenty minutes in, the movie had settled into a quieter scene. The room dim. The only real light coming from the TV.

You were focused, halfway through another slice of pizza, so you didn’t hear it at first. The quiet shift behind you. The soft movement of fabric.

Not until something moved behind you. Close and sudden. And then there were arms. You flinched. A sharp inhale leaving you as your shoulders tensed instinctively.

'Hey—hey, it’s just me.' Manon’s voice came quickly, calm and low.

You turned your head slightly, still a little startled. '…Manon?'

'Yeah.' She said simply.

Before you could question it further, you felt it. The blanket. It draped around you from behind, settling over your shoulders as her arms wrapped loosely around your middle, pulling you back just slightly— not forcefully. Just enough. Tucking you in.

You blinked. 'Oh.'

It clicked. The warmth wasn’t just yours anymore.

You felt her shift behind you, settling properly, her chin resting lightly near your shoulder as she adjusted the blanket to cover both of you.

'Continue watching.' She said quietly.

There was no teasing in her voice. No big explanation. Just… simple.

You hesitated for a second, then relaxed. Your shoulders dropped. The initial surprise fading quickly as you leaned back slightly into her hold without really thinking about it.

It was warm. Not overwhelming. Not tight. Just… steady.

You could feel the contrast more clearly now—your warmth against the cool air, the blanket trapping it in, her arms holding it there.

'…You were cold.' You murmured.

'A little.' She admitted.

That was it. You huffed a small, amused breath, shaking your head lightly. '…You could’ve just asked.'

'I could have.' She said.

Then after a moment of silence. '…This was easier.'

That made you smile.

Behind you, Lara noticed first.

'…Hey,' she whispered, nudging Yoonchae slightly. 'Look.'

Yoonchae peeked over. Her eyes widened a little.

'She stole her.' Daniela whispered dramatically.

Megan leaned forward slightly, peeking past Daniela, her brows lifting. '…Oh, we’re just doing that now?' She murmured, half amused, half impressed.

Sophia glanced over too, trying not to laugh.

Manon didn’t react. Didn’t move. She just stayed there, calm and composed, like this was the most normal thing in the world.

And you? You just… let it happen. Because it was warm.

The movie continued. Soft dialogue filling the room. Occasional quiet reactions from the others.

But now, you were aware of it. The difference. The way the blanket held the warmth in. The way Manon’s arms rested comfortably around you. The way your back leaned lightly against her without resistance.

It wasn’t overwhelming. It wasn’t strange. It just made sense.

After a while, you didn’t even think about it anymore. You just reached for another slice of pizza, still watching the movie, still completely at ease, now just… slightly more shared.

And behind you, Manon stayed exactly where she was. Quiet. Warm. Not saying anything. Just keeping you there. Like it was already understood.

Across the couch, Lara pulled her blanket tighter. '…I want a turn later.' She muttered.

'You’re not scheduling her.' Daniela whispered back.

Yoonchae nodded softly. 'We can take turns.'

Megan leaned back into the couch again, adjusting her hoodie with a small huff. '…I’m adding myself to that list.'

Sophia covered her mouth, trying not to laugh.

You didn’t hear that part. Too focused on the movie. Too comfortable where you were. Too unaware that this was quickly becoming a very real system in the group.

And that you were right at the centre of it.

---

Airports always felt the same. Bright. Busy. A constant hum of movement and voices blending together—rolling suitcases, distant announcements, people rushing past like they were always just about to be late.

The group moved together through it all, a small cluster of familiar energy in the middle of the chaos.

Bags in hand. Passports ready. Half awake.

'Why is it always so cold in here?' Daniela complained, tugging at the sleeves of her hoodie as she walked.

'It’s an airport,' Manon replied simply. 'It’s always like this.'

'That doesn’t mean I have to like it.'

Lara adjusted the strap of her bag on her shoulder, bundled up properly this time. 'At least we dressed for it today.'

'That’s because we learned.' Daniela shot back, glancing briefly at you.

You're walking alongside them in your usual sweats, a loose top and a hoodie that you weren’t even wearing. It was slung over your arm instead.

Sophia noticed immediately. Of course she did. '…You brought a hoodie.' She said, eyeing you.

'Yeah.'

'You’re not wearing it.'

You shrugged. 'I don’t need it.'

She stared at you for a second. Then shook her head with a quiet sigh, like she’d already accepted this about you.

Ahead of you, Yoonchae walked quietly, hands tucked into the sleeves of her own hoodie.

She looked smaller like that. More bundled. But even from a distance, you noticed it.

The slight hunch in her shoulders. The way her hands were pulled in tighter. She was cold.

You didn’t think about it. Didn’t hesitate.

'Yoonchae.'

She turned slightly, blinking up at you. 'Yeah?'

You held your hoodie out toward her. 'Here.'

She paused. '…What?'

'Take it.'

Her eyes flicked between you and the hoodie. 'But—what about you?'

'I’m fine.' You said simply.

She hesitated for maybe half a second, then took it.

'Thank you.' She said quickly, already pulling it over her head.

She didn’t even take her own hoodie off. Just layered yours on top of it without a second thought. It looked ridiculous. Two hoods. Sleeves slightly too long. Fabric bunching.

Daniela stared. '…That’s insane.'

Lara let out a small laugh. 'You look like you’re wearing armour.'

Yoonchae didn’t care. She just pulled the sleeves over her hands again, shoulders relaxing almost instantly.

'…It’s warm.' She said quietly.

You smiled a little. 'Good.'

From behind you, Megan glanced over briefly, taking in the scene before looking forward again, adjusting her own jacket.

Manon shook her head faintly. 'You didn’t even think about that, did you?'

You shrugged. It wasn’t a big deal. To you, it never was.

Sophia, however, had slowed slightly to walk beside you. She looked at you. Then at your now empty arm. Then back at you.

'…Are you cold?' She asked.

You shook your head. 'No.'

She didn’t look convinced.

'C'mere.' She said, reaching out before you could react.

Her hands wrapped around your arm, rubbing up and down briskly like she was trying to warm you up manually.

'Sophia—'

'You gave your hoodie away,' she said. 'At least let me—'

She stopped mid-sentence. Her hands slowed. Then paused completely.

'…You’re already warm.' She said, more to herself than anyone else.

You huffed a small laugh. '... yeah.'

She looked at you for a second and then, without overthinking it, she shifted. Instead of letting go, she looped her arms around yours, pulling it in closer and holding it against her chest.

'Oh,' she said lightly. 'This works.'

You blinked. Then smiled a little. '…You’re using me.'

'Obviously.' She replied without hesitation.

You didn’t argue. Didn’t pull away. You just kept walking like that. Through the noise. Through the crowd.

Sophia attached to your arm, quietly stealing warmth. Yoonchae a few steps ahead, still bundled in two hoodies. Daniela and Lara talking quietly. Manon walking steadily beside them. Megan just ahead, occasionally glancing back to make sure everyone was still together.

It was… normal. Weirdly normal. Then the line for check-in came into view.

'Finally.' Daniela muttered.

You all slowed, merging into the queue with everyone else. Suitcases set down. Passports pulled out again.

Sophia was still holding onto your arm. You didn’t even notice how long it had been. Until— 'Next.'

You stepped forward automatically, grabbing your suitcase handle. And paused.

'…Soph.'

She looked up. 'Hm?'

'I need my arm.'

There was a brief pause then she blinked, like she’d forgotten. 'Oh—right.' She let go immediately, stepping back with a small laugh. 'Sorry.'

You smiled, flexing your fingers slightly as you reached for your bag properly. 'It’s okay.'

Behind you, Daniela snorted quietly. 'She got too comfortable.'

'I did not.' Sophia said, though she was still smiling.

'You absolutely did.' Lara added.

Yoonchae, still wrapped in both hoodies, nodded. 'Same.'

You glanced back at them briefly, shaking your head with a soft laugh before turning back to the counter. It was quick. Routine. Check-in. Bag tagged. Sent off.

But as you stepped aside again, back with the group, Sophia didn’t hesitate. She slipped right back to your side.

Not grabbing your arm this time. Just standing close enough. Like she’d already figured out exactly where the warmth was. And wasn’t planning on losing it again.

---

Snow in Los Angeles didn’t make sense. It just… didn’t. Yet there it was. Heavy and constant. Falling in thick, quiet sheets outside your window, coating the streets, the rooftops, the palm trees that looked deeply unprepared for this kind of weather.

The entire city had slowed down. And more importantly—it was cold.

Not just 'oh, it’s a bit chilly.' No. It was the kind of cold that seeped into everything. Apartments. Hallways. Walls that clearly weren’t built for this. Most people were struggling.

You? You were asleep. Fully knocked out. Not even under your covers. Just… on top of your bed.

Still in your clothes from earlier, sprawled slightly diagonally across the mattress like you’d meant to lie down for a second and never recovered.

Your blanket was half hanging off the side. Your pillow barely under your head. Completely unaware of the freezing weather outside.

Across the building, Megan was very much aware.

'This is getting ridiculous.' She muttered, now pacing her apartment with arms crossed tightly over herself after a failed attempt at sleeping.

Her hoodie wasn’t helping. The blanket she’d tried earlier hadn’t helped. Even the heater, which was technically on, felt like it was doing absolutely nothing.

She grabbed her phone. Dialed. It rang. And rang. And rang.

'…Seriously, Y/N? You're always awake...' She muttered, staring at the screen.

No answer.

She tried again but got the same result.

Megan frowned. 'Did she fall asleep already…?'

Another glance at her apartment. Another shiver. '…Yeah, I’m not doing this.'

A decision was made. A few minutes later, your apartment door unlocked. Megan stepped inside like she’d done it a hundred times before—because she had.

'Hello?' She called quietly, shutting the door behind her.

No response.

The place was still. Lights off. Silent.

She made her way down the short hallway toward your room, already knowing where you’d be.

Your door was slightly open. She pushed it gently. And there you were.

'…Oh my god.'

You were fully passed out. On top of your bed. Not even under the blanket.

Megan stared at you for a second. 'You’re actually unbelievable.'

She stepped closer, arms still folded, shaking her head slightly.

'You’re telling me it’s basically snowing in LA and you’re just—' she gestured vaguely at you, '—like this?'

No response. You didn’t even move.

She sighed, stepping up to the side of your bed. '…You have to be cold.'

Carefully, she reached out and grabbed your arm. Then paused.

'…What.'

Her brows furrowed. She squeezed lightly. Then pressed her palm more fully against your arm.

'…You’re warm.'

Not just warm. Actually warm.

Megan stared at you like you’d personally offended her. 'You’re something else entirely.'

You shifted slightly in your sleep, mumbling something incoherent before going still again.

She exhaled slowly through her nose. '…Unbelievable.'

Another glance at your blanket. Then at you. Still not using it.

'Move.' She muttered, already grabbing the edge of it.

You didn’t. So she did it herself. With a bit more effort than expected, she tugged the blanket up, then awkwardly maneuvered you—just enough—to get you under it properly.

You stirred. '…mmh—'

'Shh.' She said automatically, even though you weren’t really awake.

Once you were at least somewhat covered, she hesitated. Looked at the bed. Then at her own arms. Still cold. '…Yeah, no.'

Decision made. She climbed in. Quickly. Sliding under the blanket beside you and immediately shifting closer, chasing the warmth she’d already felt.

And then you woke up. Violently. Your entire body jolted. '—WHAT—'

Megan flinched. 'Whoa—hey—hey—'

You stared at her, heart racing, eyes wide in the dim light. 'What are you doing—?!'

'I tried calling you!' She said quickly, hands up slightly in defence. 'You didn’t answer!'

You blinked at her. Then at your room. Then back at her. '…You broke into my apartment?'

'We all have keys.' She shot back.

You stared for another second. '…Right.'

Silence. You were still half asleep. Still very confused. Brain clearly not functioning at full capacity.

'…Why are you in my bed?'

'It’s freezing,' she said immediately. 'My apartment is unbearable.'

You processed that. Slowly. '…So you came here.'

'Yes.'

'…To my bed.'

'Yes.'

'…To—what. Sleep?'

She gave you a look. '…and to not freeze.'

Another pause.

Your eyes blinked slower this time. Your body already starting to sink back into the mattress.

'…That’s so gay.' You mumbled.

Megan stared at you. '…But I am gay.'

You didn’t respond. Because you were already settling again. Not moving away. Not arguing. Just… accepting it.

Megan exhaled quietly, shaking her head. '…my god.'

But she didn’t leave. Instead, she shifted slightly closer. Not dramatic. Not clinging. Just enough.

Because the warmth was immediate. Real. And after a few seconds, her shoulders relaxed.

'…Okay, yeah,' she muttered softly. 'Worth it.'

You made a small, sleepy noise in response.

Neither of you said anything else. The room fell quiet again. Snow still falling outside. Soft against the window. Inside, it was warm and still.

And within minutes, both of you were asleep. Like it was the most normal thing in the world.

---

Manon’s apartment always felt… put together. Clean counters. Soft lighting. Everything in its place. Even when it was lived in, it never felt messy—just warm in a quiet, calm way.

The kitchen, however—was currently occupied. Steam curled up from the pot on the stove, the gentle bubbling filling the space with a low, steady sound.

You stood there, focused, sleeves pushed up slightly as you moved with ease around the counter.

'Are you sure you don’t need help?' Manon asked from where she leaned against the kitchen island, arms loosely crossed.

You shook your head. 'I’ve got it.'

She watched you for a second longer, then nodded. 'Alright. I’m not complaining.'

From the living room, voices drifted in.

'I’m telling you, it was her fault.' Sophia said.

'That doesn’t even make sense.' Yoonchae replied, her voice lighter, amused.

Manon glanced over her shoulder. 'What are they arguing about now?'

'No idea,' you said, reaching for a bowl. 'But I’m not getting involved.'

She smiled faintly. 'Smart.'

A few minutes later, you were finishing up. Ramen, carefully assembled. Soft boiled eggs, perfectly cut. Slices of spam tucked neatly between noodles. Steam still rising.

You picked up the bowl carefully, adjusting your grip before turning toward the living room.

'Food’s—'

The front door burst open.

'I’m actually freezing.'

Daniela. Her voice echoed slightly as she stepped inside, immediately hugging her arms around herself.

'This is getting beyond a joke now,' she continued, kicking the door shut behind her. 'Why is it colder inside than outside? That doesn’t even make—'

She stopped. Because she saw you. Standing there. Holding a bowl of ramen. In a t-shirt. Completely fine.

There was a pause. A very brief one.

'…Oh.'

You blinked. 'Hey.'

You didn’t even get another word out. Because suddenly— Daniela moved. Fast.

'Wait—'

She crossed the room in seconds and latched onto you. Full force. Her arms wrapped around your middle as she pressed into your side like she’d made a life decision and wasn’t turning back.

You stumbled slightly, instinctively adjusting your stance to keep the bowl steady.

'Whoa—hey—!'

'Don’t move.' She said immediately, voice muffled slightly against you.

'I’m holding hot food—'

'I don’t care.'

You let out a disbelieving laugh, trying not to spill anything. 'Daniela—'

'You’re warm.' She cut in, tightening her grip like that settled everything.

From the couch, Sophia leaned forward slightly. 'That was quick.'

Yoonchae nodded. 'She didn’t even say hi properly.'

'I said hi.' Daniela muttered.

'You attacked me.' You corrected.

'Same thing.'

Manon stepped into the doorway from the kitchen, taking in the scene with a small, unsurprised exhale.

'…I leave you alone for five seconds.'

'She’s cold.' You said, like that explained it.

'I am cold.' Daniela added, not moving at all.

You shifted slightly, still trying to balance the bowl in your hands. 'Can you at least let me put this down?'

'No.'

'Daniela.'

'…Fine.'

But she still didn’t fully let go. You went to side step her but she moved with you.

That's when you felt it. Something warm brush against your neck. You froze instantly.

'—WHA—?!'

Your whole body jolted, nearly spilling the bowl as you whipped your head slightly.

'Did you just kiss me?!' You shrieked.

'WHAT—NO?!' Daniela yelled back immediately, just as loud.

'You did—you literally—'

'I DIDN’T—YOU MOVED—'

'I DIDN’T MOVE, YOU’RE ATTACHED TO ME—'

'I WAS TRYING TO NOT DROP YOUR FOOD—'

'BY KISSING MY NECK?!'

'I DIDN’T KISS YOU—'

'THEN WHY DID IT FEEL LIKE THAT—'

'I DON’T KNOW—YOU’RE WARM—'

'THAT DOESN’T EXPLAIN ANYTHING—'

'I PANICKED—'

'YOU PANICKED AND KISSED ME?!'

'I DIDN’T—'

Through all of this— she had still not let go. Still fully attached to you. Still holding on like her life depended on it.

On the couch— Sophia had fully lost it. 'Oh my god—' she laughed, covering her face. 'What is happening—'

Yoonchae was doubled over slightly, laughing quietly. 'They’re both screaming—'

Manon just stood there, arms crossed, shaking her head slowly. '…You two are freaks.'

'Don’t do that again!' You said, turning your head slightly to glare at her.

'I didn’t do anything!' Daniela shot back.

'You absolutely did—'

'It was an accident!'

You narrowed your eyes. She narrowed hers right back. A moment of silence passed.

'…You didn’t kiss me?' You asked, more suspicious now than anything.

'No,' she said, equally defensive. 'I would never.'

'Good.'

'Good.'

Another pause.

'…That was weird.' You muttered.

'…Yeah.' She agreed.

And then— like nothing had just happened— she tightened her grip again. Resting back against you. Completely unbothered.

You stared ahead for a second. Then sighed. '…You’re still holding onto me.'

'Obviously.'

'…Unbelievable.'

From the couch, Sophia wiped tears from her eyes. 'Please don’t stop, this is the best thing I’ve seen all day.'

Yoonchae nodded, still smiling. 'That was really loud.'

Manon turned back toward the kitchen. 'I’m pretending none of that just happened.'

You shook your head, but there was a small smile there now. Because somehow, this had just become another completely normal moment.

With a careful breath, you finally managed to steady your hands, nudging Daniela slightly with your shoulder just enough to create space.

You leaned forward—slow, deliberate—and set the bowl down on the coffee table without spilling a single drop.

You let out a quiet laugh, shaking your head as you relaxed slightly into her now tightening hold.

'…You have no shame.'

'None.' She said.

From the couch, Sophia laughed. 'At least she’s honest.'

Yoonchae pulled her legs closer under herself, watching the two of you with a small smile.

'You’re not even wearing a hoodie.' You said, glancing down slightly.

'I didn’t think I’d need one.' Daniela replied.

You raised a brow. 'It’s freezing.'

'Yeah,' she said. 'And now I’ve fixed that.'

You huffed out a soft laugh.

She shifted slightly, adjusting her position so she was more comfortable, her head resting lightly against your shoulder now.

The tension in her posture had already eased. Her shoulders weren’t hunched anymore. Her grip wasn’t as tight. Just… settled.

Manon walks back into the room holding chopsticks and a few bowls, shaking her head faintly. 'You didn’t even try to resist.'

'Why would I?' Daniela replied. 'This is efficient.'

'That’s one way to put it.' Sophia said.

You glanced around at them, then back down slightly. '…You could’ve just asked.'

Daniela snorted quietly. 'And wait longer? No.'

That made you smile.

A comfortable silence settled for a moment. The kind that came easily.

'…Is that ramen?' Daniela asked, finally lifting her head slightly.

You glanced at the table. '...no its fried chicken. Yes, its ramen! You've been stood with your head hovering over it for the past two minutes.'

'You could’ve just said yes.' She mumbled, still staring down at the bowl like she’d just discovered something life-changing.

'And ruin the moment?' You shot back lightly.

She looked at it. Then back at you.

'…You made food and didn’t tell me first?'

'You literally just got here.'

'Still...'

You laughed, gently nudging her. 'Go eat.'

She hesitated. Then tightened her hold again. '…Bring it here.'

You stared at her. 'No.'

Sophia laughed. 'You’re so lazy.'

'I’m cold.' Daniela defended.

'You’re attached to the solution.' Manon pointed out.

'…Exactly.'

You shook your head, smiling despite yourself. '…Unbelievable.'

But you didn’t move away. Didn’t push her off. Just stood there— letting her cling. Letting her steal warmth without a second thought.

Because at this point, it wasn’t even surprising anymore. It was just… Daniela.

---

The studio had never felt this exhausting before. You were all in for 8 a.m sharp. That’s when it started. Warm-ups. Run-throughs. Corrections. Again. Again. And again.

By the time you’d hit midday, your muscles were already burning. By the time you came back from the short break—barely twenty minutes to breathe, eat something quick, drink water—

it just… kept going. Music looping. Feet hitting the floor in sync. Voices calling counts. Mirrors reflecting every movement back at you.

'Again from the top.'

And you did. You always did. Hours passed like that.

The cold from earlier in the week? Completely gone. Now the studio felt thick. Heavy. Warm in a way that clung to your skin.

And you— you felt it more than usual. Not the cold. Never the cold.

But the heat? That was different. Your shirt stuck slightly to your back. Your breathing heavier than normal. A constant warmth under your skin that didn’t fade, no matter how many times you wiped sweat from your face.

Still, you kept going. Because everyone else was. Because that’s what you did.

Until finally— 'Alright, that’s it for today.'

The music cut. Silence. And your body just gave in. You dropped. Not dramatic. Not graceful. Just collapsed forward onto the floor, arms barely catching you before you ended up face down.

A groan left you, muffled against the ground. '…I’m done.'

Behind you, the others followed soon after.

Daniela flopped onto her back. 'I can’t feel my legs.'

Lara dropped beside her. 'I don’t think I have bones anymore.'

Yoonchae sat down more carefully, though even she looked drained. Sophia lowered herself with a tired exhale. Manon rolled her shoulders, breathing steady but clearly feeling it. Megan leaned back against the mirror, head tipping slightly as she caught her breath.

For a moment, no one moved. Just the sound of breathing.

'…You’re really warm.' Yoonchae’s voice was quiet. You cracked one eye open slightly.

'…I’m always warm.'

'No,' she said, a little closer now. 'Like—really warm.'

She’d shifted, sitting near your head now, her hand hovering slightly before she leaned in just a bit more. 'I can feel it from here.'

Daniela lifted her head slightly from the floor. '…Are you steaming?'

Lara squinted. '…Wait, yeah—'

'You’re lying.' You muttered weakly.

'I’m not,' Daniela said, pushing herself up slightly. 'You actually look like you’re overheating.'

'That’s new.' Manon added, glancing over.

Sophia was already moving. Of course she was. She pushed herself up and came over, crouching beside you as she reached out placing her hand gently against your forehead.

'…Yeah,' she said softly. 'You’re too hot.'

You let out a small groan. 'That’s a first.'

'No kidding.' Daniela muttered.

Sophia didn’t move her hand right away, her touch grounding and steady. Then she shifted slightly.

'Sit up a little.' She said gently.

You didn’t really want to. But you did anyway. Slow. Heavy. The second you moved, the heat seemed to hit you all over again, making you wince slightly.

'Easy.' Sophia murmured.

She started fanning you with her hand instinctively, trying to create some kind of airflow.

It helped. A little.

'Wait—hold on—' Daniela suddenly shuffled closer. You barely had time to react before she grabbed the bottom of your shirt.

'…Daniela—'

And started lifting it up slightly. Then letting it fall. Then lifting it again. Creating the most inconsistent, chaotic airflow possible.

'…What are you doing?' You said, too tired to even argue properly.

'I’m helping.' She said.

'That’s not helping—'

'It is, feel that—'

'It’s uneven—'

'It’s airflow—'

Manon, standing nearby now, let out a quiet laugh. 'I’m surprised you’re not attached to her right now.' She said lightly.

Daniela paused mid-motion. '…What?'

'Like the other day,' Manon continued, grabbing a towel and starting to wave it gently in your direction, much more effectively, 'you wouldn’t even let her put the ramen down.'

There was a beat.

Megan, still leaning against the mirror, blinked. '…You what?'

Daniela immediately pointed at you. 'She started it—'

'I did not—' You mumbled weakly.

'She accused me of kissing her!'

'I didn’t accuse—you literally—'

'You screamed!'

'Because you were on my neck!'

'IT WAS AN ACCIDENT—'

'Why were you that close—'

'Because I was cold—'

Megan stared at the two of you. '…Why do I always miss this type of shit.'

Sophia sighed, still fanning you gently. 'A lot happened, it was hilarious.'

Yoonchae nodded seriously. 'They both screamed... a lot.'

Lara, who had disappeared for a moment, came rushing back in. 'I got water.' She said, slightly out of breath, holding out a bottle.

'Lifesaver.' You muttered.

She crouched beside you, opening it for you before handing it over. You took it, drinking gratefully.

Around you—they all hovered. Sophia fanning you steadily. Manon standing nearby, using the towel properly this time. Daniela still occasionally lifting your shirt like she refused to admit her method wasn’t great.

Yoonchae sitting close, watching carefully. Lara hovering with the water. Megan nearby, arms loosely crossed now, just observing, shaking her head slightly.

'…This is weird.' You mumbled after a moment.

'What is?' Lara asked.

'You guys… taking care of me.'

'You take care of us all the time.' Yoonchae said simply.

Sophia nodded. 'Yeah. Let us have this.'

Manon added, 'It’s only fair.'

Daniela huffed lightly. 'Yeah, don’t make it a thing.'

You let out a quiet laugh. '…Alright.'

You didn’t argue after that. Didn’t brush them off. You just… let yourself sink back slightly. Let the towel waves cool your skin. Let the air from Sophia’s hand ease the heat. Let Lara keep the water coming. Let Daniela continue her questionable method. Let them be there.

Because for once—you needed it. And they were already there to give it.

The studio slowly quieted again. The exhaustion still there. The heat slowly fading. But now, it was softer.

And as you lay there, eyes half closed, breathing finally evening out— you couldn’t help the small smile that settled in. Because maybe being the one who kept everyone warm also meant— you were never going to be left to burn out alone.

---

BONUS:

For a while, you just stayed there. Letting the cool air hit your skin. Letting your breathing settle. Letting the warmth finally ease into something manageable again.

'Alright,' Sophia said softly, placing a hand on your shoulder. 'Up you get.'

You groaned. 'No.'

'Yes.'

You barely had the energy to argue. Still, you let out a weak, 'Give me five minutes.'

'You’ve had ten.' She replied, not unkindly.

'…That’s unfair.'

She smiled slightly, already hooking an arm under yours. 'Come on.'

With her help—and a lot more effort than it should’ve taken—you managed to sit up. Then stand.

Your legs protested immediately.

'…I regret everything.' You muttered.

'Good,' Daniela said from somewhere nearby. 'That means you worked hard.'

You shot her a tired look.

Sophia kept a steady hand on your arm, making sure you didn’t just collapse again.

'You’re not walking home.' She said, glancing over toward Lara.

Lara looked up instantly. 'I’m driving?'

'Yes,' Sophia replied. 'She's not walking in this condition.'

You didn’t even argue. Didn’t have it in you. '…Okay.' You mumbled.

That alone told them how tired you were.

'Wow,' Daniela said. 'No fight?'

'Too tired.' You said simply.

You slowly made your way over to your bag, movements sluggish, still feeling that lingering heaviness in your limbs.

Everyone else started gathering their things too, the usual end-of-day routine falling into place.

You slung your bag over your shoulder— then paused. Your eyes drifted toward Daniela. She was mid-conversation with Yoonchae, completely unaware.

You stared at her for a second. Then, without a word—you walked over. Slow and deliberate.

She turned slightly. '…What?'

You said nothing. Just leaned in like you were about to kiss her.

Her eyes widened. 'WAIT—' She screamed. Full volume. 'NO—NO—NO—'

She shoved you away and bolted across the room like her life depended on it.

You burst out laughing immediately, the sound breaking through your exhaustion.

'I DIDN’T EVEN TOUCH YOU—' You called after her.

'STAY AWAY FROM ME—' She yelled from across the studio, pointing at you like you were a threat.

'You’re scared of the gays.' You shot back, still laughing.

'I’M NOT SCARED—YOU’RE WEIRD—'

'YOU PANICKED—'

'YOU LUNGED AT ME—'

'I LEANED—'

'THAT’S WORSE—'

On the side, Sophia had fully given up, laughing as she covered her face. 'Please,' she said, breathless, 'can we go home now—'

Yoonchae was giggling quietly. Manon shook her head, though there was a small smile there. Megan just exhaled, amused, grabbing her bag.

Lara was already heading toward the door. 'Come on, before they start round two.'

You adjusted your bag again, still smiling as you turned back. '…You started it.' You muttered toward Daniela.

'I DID NOT—'

'RAMEN INCIDENT.'

'IT WAS AN ACCIDENT—'

'KEEP TELLING YOURSELF THAT—'

'GO HOME—'

You laughed again, softer this time, the exhaustion finally catching up properly.

And this time, when Sophia gently nudged you toward the door, you went. No resistance. Just tired. Warm. And surrounded by voices that didn’t quite quiet down, even as you all started to leave.

Because somehow, even at the end of the longest day, there was still energy left for this. For laughter. For chaos. For each other.

Her brows lift. 'What is?'

'That you look like that and still pretend you’re not aware of it.' You grin, leaning closer until your shoulder brushes hers.

Sophia bites back a smile, eyes flicking toward you for half a second before she turns away. 'You’re unbelievable.'

'Only because you make it easy.' You reply smoothly, your voice low and teasing. You reach over to fix a strand of hair that’s fallen over her face, fingers brushing her cheek just long enough to make her blush.

Across the room, Lara catches it. 'Oh my god,' she groans dramatically, clutching her heart. 'You two are like a drama. A soft one, but still.'

Sophia throws a cushion at her. 'Don’t encourage her!'

You laugh, catching Sophia’s wrist before she can pull away. 'You love it when I do.' You murmur, and the way her face flushes pink gives you your answer before she can say a word.

Megan walks by with a snack and shakes her head. 'You two are impossible. Sophia, you’re literally red.'

Sophia hides her face in your shoulder. 'I am not.'

'You so are,' you tease, slipping an arm around her waist in a gesture that’s half a hug, half a claim. 'But that’s okay. It suits you.'

Lara pretends to faint, flopping onto the floor. 'I can’t do this,' she laughs. 'How is she so smooth? I’d combust if anyone said that to me.'

'Don’t give her ideas.' Sophia mutters, still pressed against you. But when she finally lifts her head, there’s the smallest, softest smile curving her lips — the kind that only shows when she’s trying not to look completely in love.

You tilt your head toward her, voice light but full of meaning. 'What can I say? You inspire my best work.'

She swats at you with no real force, cheeks glowing brighter. 'You’re actually impossible.'

'Maybe,' you whisper, 'but you like impossible.'

And when she hides her face again, laughing into your shoulder while Lara squeals in the background — it’s clear she really, really does.

---

The thing about you and Sophia is that everyone thinks they’ve got you figured out.

In public, you’re all charm — all clever smiles, casual touches, and teasing words that leave her pink-cheeked and pretending to be unimpressed.

But behind closed doors, you’re still all charm, but there's another layer entirely.

You’re at a radio interview today, sitting beside Sophia on the couch. She’s in a cropped cardigan and jeans, looking unfairly good for someone who claims she 'didn’t even try this morning.' You know better.

When the interviewer asks about 'which member is the flirtiest,' everyone immediately points at Sophia.

'Me?' She laughs, pointing to herself. 'No, no, I don't think that’s true—'

'Yes, it is,' Lara interrupts. 'Sophia charms people accidentally. It’s scary.'

'Accidentally?' You say, leaning forward toward your mic with a grin. 'That’s cute. I didn’t know it was possible to charm accidentally.'

The room chuckles, but Sophia side-eyes you, catching the glint in your gaze. 'You’re just jealous.'

'Of what?' You ask, playing dumb.

'That people fall for me.'

'Oh, I’m not jealous,' you say easily. 'I’ve already fallen. I just enjoy the view while everyone else catches up.'

The girls all scream. Megan’s falling off the couch, Lara’s clutching her chest, Daniela’s covering her mouth to hide her grin. Sophia, on the other hand, is frozen — blinking at you with her lips parted just slightly.

She tries, she really tries to play it cool. 'Oh my god you’re stupid.' She says, shaking her head, but the corners of her mouth betray her.

'Yeah, but you like me anyway.' You reply with a wink.

The interviewer laughs. 'I think we found our real flirt here.'

And Sophia just leans back in her seat, defeated, while you look smug and happy with yourself.

Hours later, after the chaos of the schedule, you’re back in the dorm. The lights are dim, the others are in their rooms, and the only sound is the faint hum of the heater and the quiet playlist playing on Sophia’s phone.

You’re lying on her bed, one arm tucked under your head, scrolling aimlessly through something on your phone. Sophia steps out of the bathroom with her hair damp and her face clean, wearing one of your hoodies.

It hits you — that same warmth that always comes after teasing her all day. When it’s just you and her, the air feels different. Softer.

She looks at you for a second before climbing onto the bed beside you. 'So,' she starts, teasing, 'you gonna keep flirting with me in front of everyone or give me a break now?'

You grin. 'You love it.'

'I tolerate it.' She says, but she’s smiling.

You put your phone down and shift closer, tracing your fingers along her sleeve. 'You sure? Because I saw the way you blushed today.'

'Did not.'

'You did. Megan almost passed out.'

Sophia huffs a laugh, turning her face toward the pillow to hide her grin. 'You’re such a menace.'

'Maybe,' you murmur, voice softer now. 'But only for you.'

That earns you a quiet pause. You can almost see the shift in her — how her guard melts just a little more when it’s just the two of you.

When she looks at you again, you’re not smirking or being clever. You’re just watching her with that gentle, open affection that never fails to make her heart ache in the best way.

You tug her closer by the sleeve, and she comes easily, curling against you. Your hand finds its way into her hair, slow and careful, and you press a kiss against her temple.

'You okay?' She asks after a while, tracing little shapes on your arm.

You hum. 'Mhm. Just tired.'

'From all the flirting?' She teases.

'From pretending you don’t like it.' You mumble into her hair, and she laughs — that real, warm laugh that only you get to hear this close.

She tries to hide her face again, muttering, 'You’re so annoying.' But her hand doesn’t leave your waist.

You smile, feeling her heartbeat through her hoodie — your hoodie. 'Yeah, but I’m your annoying.'

Sophia sighs, pretending to be exasperated, but the way she snuggles closer tells the truth. 'You really are.'

The two of you lie there, wrapped in that quiet comfort that follows chaos. Out there, you’re the smooth talker who always makes her blush. But here — just like this — you’re soft, and shy, and completely hers.

And for Sophia, that’s the version she loves most.

---

The energy backstage is still buzzing. The crowd had been deafening, the lights blinding, and your adrenaline hasn’t even thought about calming down yet. The seven of you have just finished your encore on stage, waving goodbye with wide smiles and loud 'thank you's' echoing through the venue.

Sophia’s behind you as you start heading toward the stage steps, her hand gripping her mic, cheeks flushed and shining with sweat. You turn slightly, automatically scanning to make sure everyone’s okay— and when you spot her hesitating near the top step in her chunky boots, you don’t even think twice.

You extend a hand behind you.

'Careful, sweetheart.' You say softly over your shoulder, the words automatic, a smile tugging at your lips.

Sophia laughs under her breath, shaking her head. 'I got it.'

'Yeah, I know,' you murmur, still holding your hand out for her. 'But let me pretend to be your knight for five seconds.'

She hesitates a beat before slipping her hand into yours. You help her down, steadying her with a hand at her waist. You don’t notice that your mic—your still-on mic—picks up every word.

Manon catches it, eyes widening slightly as she glances between the two of you. Daniela’s grinning like she knows exactly what just happened.

But you? Oblivious. You just grin at Sophia and drop her hand once she’s on flat ground, walking offstage like nothing happened.

Hours later, you’re home. Showered, in bed, and half asleep. Sophia’s somewhere in the next room talking to Yoonchae about dinner plans tomorrow. You’re doom scrolling, letting your brain melt in peace, when you open Twitter.

And freeze.

There, front and centre on your feed, is a fan captured clip titled:

🎤 'Careful, sweetheart' — KATSEYE’s 7th member caught flirting with Sophia onstage 😳💘

You stare at your screen in horror.

The video’s already at 200k views, the captions full of screaming emojis and edits with hearts flying around your faces.

The audio is crystal clear — you can hear your voice, low and gentle, followed by Sophia’s little laugh.

Then your follow-up line: 'Let me pretend to be your knight for five seconds.'

You throw your phone on the bed and bury your face in a pillow. 'Oh my god.'

You hear the door creak open a few seconds later.

'What’s wrong?' Sophia asks, coming into your room in a tank top and shorts, hair down and fluffy.

You peek out from the pillow, eyes wide. 'Have you been on Twitter?'

Her expression immediately tenses. '…What did you do?'

'I didn’t do anything!' You protest, sitting up. 'I was just—helping you down the steps—being nice!'

Sophia walks over, grabs your phone, and sees the clip. Her jaw drops. 'Oh my god, your mic was on.'

You groan. 'Yeah. And now I’m apparently a ‘gentlemanly flirt who writes poetry with my eyes,’ according to the comments.'

She scrolls through the replies, cheeks reddening as she reads. '‘If she called me sweetheart, I’d combust.’ … ‘Sophia’s smile after??? She’s so gone.’'

You flop back dramatically onto the bed. 'I’m never speaking again.'

Sophia’s trying so hard not to laugh. 'You know, you did sound kinda romantic.'

'Don’t start.'

'I mean—' she perches on the edge of the bed, grinning down at you. '‘Let me pretend to be your knight for five seconds?’ Who even says that?'

'I panicked!'

She giggles, covering her mouth. 'You panicked and turned into a renaissance poet.'

You glare half heartedly, tugging at her wrist until she falls beside you on the bed. 'You’re enjoying this way too much.'

'Maybe.' She props herself up on one elbow, looking at you. 'Maybe I like seeing you flustered for once.'

You squint at her, then smirk. 'You think I’m flustered?'

'Totally.'

You grin, leaning closer until she’s forced to lie back against the pillow. 'You sure about that?' You whisper, voice dipping low enough to make her breath catch.

Her eyes flick down to your lips before she quickly turns her face to the side. 'You’re impossible.'

You grin wider, the confidence returning. 'Yeah, but you like me this way.'

'Unfortunately.'

You laugh softly, settling beside her, both of you still scrolling through fans’ edits that are multiplying by the second. Every clip of your little gesture is now set to romantic music, captions like ‘her hand, her voice, the way she looks at her’ flooding the feed.

Sophia glances at you, shaking her head but smiling. 'You realise people are gonna ship us harder now, right?'

'They already do,' you murmur, nudging her shoulder. 'Now it’s just confirmed canon.'

She groans, half hiding her face in the pillow. 'I can't with you.'

'I'm just lucky you love me.' You reply with a lazy grin.

She turns her head just enough to kiss your cheek, quick but soft. 'Yeah,' she admits quietly. 'I do.'

You blink, warmth flooding your chest. '…That’s gonna end up on Twitter too, you know.'

Sophia smirks. 'Then maybe it’s about time they got some actual content.'

---

The studio feels heavier tonight.

The mirrors reflect seven tired versions of the same dream — sweat-slicked, eyes focused, every breath sharp from pushing yourselves past the limit. Lollapalooza is just days away, and the pressure’s no longer thrilling — it’s a weight you can almost feel sitting on your chest.

The song ends. The music fades. No one moves for a second.

Lara sinks to the floor with a groan, tossing her hair up into a messy bun. Manon grabs a water bottle and pours half of it straight down her back, yelping at the cold.

Sophia’s still standing, though — posture perfect, face pinched in concentration as she stares at her reflection like it’s supposed to give her the answers.

You notice it instantly.

The way her lips purse. The small tremor in her hand when she reaches for her mic again.

She’s trying to go again. You can tell — that look in her eyes always means she’s about to push past her limit, again and again, until she burns herself out completely.

'Hey.' Your voice cuts through the quiet.

Sophia doesn’t look away from the mirror. 'Hmm?'

'Break time, angel.' You take a few slow steps toward her, already seeing her frown forming.

'We don’t have time for breaks.' She says softly, but her tone’s tired — her voice doesn’t even have its usual strength.

'Then we’ll make time.' You reach her side, gently taking the mic from her hands and setting it down. 'No point performing if you collapse halfway through.'

She lets out a short sigh, shoulders sinking. 'I just… I don’t feel like I’m hitting it right. I keep overthinking the transitions. It’s like my body’s tired but my brain won’t shut up.'

You tilt your head, pretending to consider this deeply. 'Hmm. I see the problem.'

'Yeah?' She asks weakly.

'Yeah. You’re too hot when you’re stressed. It’s distracting everyone else.'

Sophia blinks at you, lips twitching despite herself. 'Girl...'

'It worked!' You grin, stepping closer. 'See? You’re smiling already.'

She rolls her eyes, but the tension in her shoulders softens. 'You’re something else, that's for sure.'

'Maybe. But I’m also your favourite distraction.'

'Keep telling yourself that.'

You let out a soft laugh, your fingers brushing her arm lightly, the contact lingering just long enough to make her shiver. 'Wanna get some air?'

Sophia hesitates — you can tell she wants to refuse, but the exhaustion finally wins. She nods.

You take her hand and lead her toward the parking lot, where the night air hits like a blessing. The city hums quietly around you, a few tiny lights stretching out across the lot.

She leans on the railing, arms folded, still frowning faintly. You come up beside her, close enough that your shoulders touch.

'You know,' you say after a beat, 'you don’t have to carry all of us.'

Sophia glances at you. 'I’m not—'

'Yeah, you are,' you interrupt gently. 'You’re the one who keeps checking everyone’s energy, fixing little mistakes, worrying when someone’s quiet. It’s cute, don’t get me wrong. But you can’t pour from an empty cup, baby.'

The endearment slips out naturally — your voice low, fond, teasing just enough to make her look away, cheeks pink in the cool light.

She exhales slowly. 'I just want us to do well. We’ve worked so hard. I don’t want to let anyone down.'

You lean a little closer, your tone softening. 'You could trip and fall onstage and everyone would still love you. You could forget a lyric, miss a note — you’d still light it up. Because it’s you.'

Sophia blinks at you, caught off guard.

'And if all else fails,' you continue with a sly grin, 'you’ve got me. I’ll just wink at the crowd and buy us time while you recover.'

She laughs, really laughs this time, leaning into your shoulder. 'You’d do that?'

'I’d do a lot worse for you.'

Her laughter fades into a soft smile. 'You’re so smooth, it’s unfair.'

'I can’t help it. It’s part of my charm.'

'You’re lucky you’re cute.'

'Correction—we’re cute,' you murmur, tapping your nose against hers playfully. 'Team effort.'

Sophia groans, half hiding her face in her hands, but her smile is bright now, the kind that makes your heart trip a little.

The door creaks open — Daniela pokes her head out. 'Guys? We’re starting again in five!'

'Got it!' You call, before turning back to Sophia. 'You ready, superstar?'

She looks at you for a moment, the city lights reflected in her eyes. 'Yeah,' she says softly. 'Thanks to you.'

You grin, giving her hand a squeeze before letting go. 'That’s my girl.'

As you head back inside, Sophia tugs your sleeve, stopping you for just a second. She leans up and kisses the corner of your mouth — quick, shy, but full of meaning.

'Guess I owe you one.' She murmurs.

'You can repay me after we kill this performance,' you say with a wink. 'Preferably with dinner.'

She laughs, shaking her head as she follows you back to the studio. And when the music starts again, there’s a spark in her movements that wasn’t there before — lighter, freer.

You watch her spin and smile and feel that familiar warmth bloom in your chest. Maybe it’s the music, maybe it’s her. Maybe it’s both.

Either way, when she catches your eye in the mirror and grins mid-step, you know exactly what she’s thinking.

You’re both gonna be just fine.

---

The crowd’s roar still rings in your ears as you walk offstage, adrenaline pulsing through every inch of you. The lights, the screams, the music — it’s all a blur of gold and color. You can barely feel your legs, but the smile on Sophia’s face is worth every ache, every hour of practice.

She’s radiant. Her hair’s slightly messy, glitter catching the light as she turns to you, eyes shining brighter than the stage lights ever could.

'That was insane,' Lara pants, fanning herself. 'I think I blacked out for half of it.'

'Same.' Manon laughs, slinging an arm around Daniela’s shoulders who jokingly says, 'I think I shat myself out there.'

You laugh softly, heading towards the steps leading off the platform, but stop as you hear:

'Wait.'

You turn — and she’s standing there, one brow raised, one hand extended toward you, palm up. The same way you always offer yours.

You blink, caught off guard. 'Oh? A role reversal?'

'Someone’s gotta keep you from tripping over your own charm.' She teases, but there’s a sweetness in her tone that softens every word.

You can’t help it — you grin, taking her hand. 'Well, when you put it like that…'

She helps you down with exaggerated care, earning a few playful cheers from the girls behind you. You almost expect her to drop your hand right after, but she doesn’t. Instead, she laces your fingers together as you both make your way to your trailer.

When the others rush ahead, Sophia tugs lightly, pulling you to a quiet corner near a curtain, not really caring if anyone catches you. The noise fades, replaced by the muffled hum of the crowd still buzzing outside.

She looks up at you — cheeks still flushed from the performance, eyes soft. 'Hey,' she says quietly. 'Thanks.'

'For what?'

'For earlier this week. For helping me breathe when I couldn’t.' Her thumb brushes your knuckles. 'You always know what to say. You make things lighter. You make me lighter.'

You open your mouth to reply, but she steps closer before you can, voice a whisper meant only for you.

'I’m really glad you were there.'

You smile, heart swelling in that gentle, unspoken way that words can’t quite touch. 'Always am,' you murmur. 'And always will be.'

Sophia exhales, smiling that soft, crinkly-eyed smile you adore. Then, without overthinking it, she rises on her toes and kisses you — brief, but full of joy, of relief, of everything you both poured into this night.

The sound of your members yelling for a group photo breaks you apart, both of you laughing quietly.

'Come on,' you say, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. 'Before they start teasing us again.'

'Let them,' she says, still smiling. 'I don’t care this time.'

You grin, offering your arm in mock formality. 'Shall we, my lady?'

Sophia slips her hand into yours, rolling her eyes but blushing anyway. 'Lead the way, gentlewoman.'

And together, still hand in hand, you walk back toward your group — the cheers echoing behind you, the stage lights fading into memory, and the promise of everything still ahead glowing between you like something golden and new.

Everyone was trying. Trying to be seen, trying to be better, trying to survive something that didn’t slow down for anyone.

You were focused. You had to be.

There wasn’t space to think too deeply about anything outside of the next performance, the next ranking, the next chance to prove you deserved to be there.

And yet, somewhere in between all of that, there was Lara. She was very easy to notice. Not in a loud, attention-seeking way. But in the way that she carried herself.

She was open, warm and effortlessly affectionate with the people she cared about. She laughed easily, touched easily, leaned into people without hesitation. Like closeness was second nature to her.

You weren’t like that. Not then at least.

You liked people. You loved deeply, even—but you weren’t someone who reached out first. You weren’t someone who needed physical closeness to feel connected.

It just hadn’t been your thing. Until you started noticing it. Not in general, but with her.

The first time it registered, you didn’t even react. You were sitting side by side during a break, both half listening to someone talking across the room, when her shoulder bumped into yours.

Light. Accidental, maybe.

Except she didn’t move away.

You remember thinking about it. Not 'why is she doing this'—but 'why don’t you mind?'

Then it kept happening.

A hand on your arm when she laughed, her leaning against you when she was tired, her head resting briefly on your shoulder like it was the most natural place in the world.

And every time, you let her. Not because you didn’t notice. But because you liked it. More than you expected to, more than you were used to.

Lara didn’t question it, she didn’t overthink it, she was just Lara. Touchy, affectionate and drawn to you in a way that felt instinctive.

It wasn’t until much later—closer to debut, when everything started becoming real—that it shifted into something neither of you could ignore.

It was late one night, everyone was exhausted. The kind of exhaustion that made everything softer, quieter.

You were sitting on the floor, back against the wall, staring at nothing in particular. Thinking about everything, thinking about the what ifs.

Lara sat down close next to you, closer than necessary.

'You’re thinking too much.' She said gently.

You huffed a quiet laugh. 'Is it that obvious?'

'Mhm.'

Her hand found yours, just like that, with no hesitation. You looked down at it, then at her, she didn’t look away.

'You don’t have to do everything alone.' She added, softer now.

Something in your chest shifted. Not dramatically, not all at once. But enough.

And for the first time, you squeezed her hand first. And that was it.

No big moment, no dramatic realisation, just a quiet understanding that settled between you and it had stayed.

From there, it didn’t rush. It grew. Through debut, through schedules, through long days and even longer nights.

Somewhere along the way, holding hands became normal. Leaning into each other became expected, sharing space stopped being something you noticed and it started being something you missed when it wasn’t there.

And you—you changed, without even realising it. You started reaching for her. Not just letting her come to you, but wanting to be close. Wanting to hold her, wanting to feel her there.

Because Lara didn’t just like affection. She lived in it. And somehow, she made you want to live there too.

The first of many moments where she reached for you was during an already chaotic livestream.

'Wait—are we live?' Daniela asked, leaning way too close to the camera.

'We’ve been live.' Sophia groaned, trying to push her back.

'No we haven’t—have we?'

'Yes, we have!'

There's laughter, overlapping voices, someone knocking into something off-camera. Just another normal Katseye livestream.

You were on the floor, right in front of the couch. Close enough that your back almost brushed against it if you leaned too far.

Lara was sitting above you. Literally. Relaxed, one leg bent slightly, the other stretched out just enough that it rested against your arm.

It wasn’t planned. None of this ever was.

You were focused on the screen in front of you, reading through comments, saying them out loud occasionally when something caught your attention.

'Someone said—uh—' you squinted slightly, 'they think we’re too loud.'

'WHO said that?' Manon immediately shot back.

'Block them.' Megan added.

You smiled faintly, shaking your head a little.

Behind you—Lara shifted. At first, it was just her leg pressing a little more firmly against your arm, a subtle adjustment.

Then—her fingers. They slipped into your hair so casually it took you a second to even process it. You paused mid-scroll just for a second.

Her touch was light and absentminded. Like she wasn’t even fully aware she was doing it. Her fingers combed gently through your hair, pushing a few strands back, then returning to do it again.

Slow, repetitive and extremely comforting.

You didn’t turn around, didn’t acknowledge it out loud, but your shoulders relaxed slightly.

'Read more comments!' Sophia nudged.

'Oh—yeah,' you blinked, refocusing. 'Someone said—'

Behind you, Lara hummed softly at something Daniela said. Still playing with your hair, still completely unbothered.

And then, because she’s Lara, she did something completely unnecessary.

Her leg lifted.

You felt it before you fully registered it. The shift of weight, the movement.

And then suddenly—her leg was draped over your shoulder.

You froze.

It wasn’t heavy, not uncomfortable, just kind of... there. Draped casually so it fell across your chest, her ankle resting somewhere near your opposite side. Like this was a completely normal thing to do.

You glanced up—just barely—trying to catch her expression.

She didn’t even look at you. She was still engaged in conversation, still acting like nothing had changed.

You huffed out the smallest breath of disbelief. But you didn’t move it.

Instead, you adjusted. You pulled your knees up slightly, shifting your position so her leg rested more comfortably against you.

Your arms came up without thinking and wrapped loosely around her leg, holding it against your chest like it belonged there, like she belonged there.

Behind you, you felt the faintest shift. Like she noticed, like she liked it.

'Wait—' Sophia’s voice cut through.

You blinked, looking up.

'…Why are you hugging Lara’s leg?' She asked, squinting at you.

The room went quiet for half a second.

You opened your mouth to answer but Lara beat you to it.

'She's cold.' She said immediately.

You turned your head slightly. '…What?'

Before you could question it further, her leg tightened slightly around your shoulder, pulling you back just a little closer to the couch.

Subtle, but intentional.

'She needs warmth.' Lara continued, like this made perfect sense.

You stared at her now, like actually stared.

She finally looked down at you, completely serious. And then—just barely—she smiled.

You exhaled a quiet laugh, shaking your head. 'Yeah,' you muttered, leaning into her leg a little more, 'That’s exactly it.'

Around you, the chaos picked back up. Arguments, laughter, someone bringing up chat again.

But you stayed like that, her fingers eventually returned to your hair, her leg still draped over you, your arms still loosely holding it in place.

Natural, effortless. But yours.

And if anyone thought it was weird, neither of you cared enough to stop.

---

Another time was on set for one of your music videos. It was beautiful. Cold, but beautiful. Not the kind of cold that hit you all at once, it crept in slowly.

Through thin stage outfits, through damp air, through the long pauses between takes where your body cooled down faster than it could recover.

'Resetting lights!' Someone called.

'Five minutes!' Another voice followed.

Five minutes. Which really meant stand around and try not to freeze while nothing happens.

You exhaled slowly, rubbing your hands together, but it didn’t do much. Your fingers still felt stiff, your shoulders still tense.

'Come here.'

You didn’t even have to look to know it was Lara. A blanket appeared around your shoulders before you could respond, warm and soft and immediate.

Then, her arms. They wrapped around you from behind first, pulling you back into her before shifting so you were facing her instead.

Close. Like, properly close.

'God, you’re freezing.' She murmured, her hands rubbing gently over your arms from under the blanket.

'I’m fine.' You mumbled automatically.

'You’re not.' She replied, just as quickly.

You didn’t argue, you didn’t have the energy to.

Instead, you leaned in so that your head found its place on her shoulder like it had done a hundred times before, your body settling into hers without hesitation.

She adjusted the blanket, pulling it tighter around both of you until there was barely any space between your bodies at all.

Her chin rested lightly against the top of your head. Her arms wrapped fully around you now, hands tucked securely against your back. Warm and safe.

You let your eyes fall shut. The noise of the set dulled almost instantly. Voices became background hum, movement became distant as everything softened.

You didn’t realise how tired you were until that moment. How much your body had been holding onto tension. Your arms slid around her waist beneath the blanket, holding onto her just as tightly as she held you.

Not loosely, not casually, but like you were anchoring yourself there.

She felt it. Of course she did. Her grip tightened slightly in response. A silent acknowledgement.

'Look at you two.' Megan’s voice cut in, light and teasing.

You barely reacted. Just a small hum, your face still tucked into Lara’s shoulder.

'Don’t.' Lara said immediately—but there was no real bite to it.

'Move over,' Megan insisted, already stepping closer. 'I’m freezing too.'

You felt the shift as she tried to wedge herself into the blanket space. More movement, more presence.

Lara huffed softly but didn’t push her away completely. Not yet.

Megan managed to squeeze in at your side, half under the blanket, half not, her shoulder pressing lightly against yours.

'See? There’s room.' She said, satisfied.

You shifted slightly, but not away. Just enough to adjust. Still half-asleep, still warm, still comfortable.

'Hey—' Megan paused suddenly.

You didn’t open your eyes.

'…I literally got so close to your face just then.' She said, amused.

You didn’t process it, didn’t register it because your breathing had already slowed. Your body fully relaxed against Lara.

But Lara... Lara noticed. Her eyes flicked down immediately. Megan was close, too close. Leaning in slightly, curious, teasing. Testing boundaries the way she always did.

'Okay, nope. Girl, bye.' Lara said.

It wasn’t loud, it wasn’t sharp, but it was immediate.

Her arms shifted as one hand came up gently, guiding your head just slightly deeper into her shoulder—while the other lifted the edge of the blanket.

And then she pulled it over you. Not fully, not in a way that would look strange. But enough that your face was now hidden beneath it. Shielded.

'Hey!' Megan protested lightly. 'I wasn’t gonna do anything!'

'You were thinking about it.' Lara replied flatly.

'I was just saying!'

'No.'

From the outside, it looked playful. Just another moment, another bit of chaos between members.

But under the blanket, everything softened again. The world disappeared. You didn’t even realise what had happened, didn’t know Megan had been close, didn’t notice the shift.

All you felt was Lara. Her arms tightening around you again, pulling you closer as her hand moved slowly up your back. Gentle and reassuring.

And then her lips. Soft, careful, pressing lightly against the top of your head. Once. Then again. Not rushed, not showy, just quiet affection.

Her way of grounding you, warming you, keeping you there.

You shifted slightly in response, your grip around her waist tightening just a little more beneath the blanket.

She smiled against your hair. 'Stay here.' She murmured softly, too quiet for anyone else to hear.

You didn’t answer, you didn’t need to, your body had already gone heavy against hers. Half-asleep, completely relaxed.

Outside, Megan was still complaining. Something about unfair blanket distribution. Someone else laughed.

But Lara didn’t pay attention anymore. Her focus stayed on you, her arms wrapped securely around you, her chin resting against your head, her lips pressing one more soft kiss into your hair.

Keeping you warm like that was the only thing that mattered.

---

The next time Lara properly reached for you came a couple days later. There were plenty of moments in between, but this is where her clinginess truly comes through.

The apartment felt lived in. Not messy—although it was still messy—just full.

Shoes by the door that no one had bothered to line up properly. Jackets thrown over the backs of chairs, phones charging in random corners, the low hum of overlapping conversations filling the space like background music.

It was comfortable. Easy.

You stood in the kitchen, lining up the last of the iced coffees on the counter.

'Alright—barista of the year,' Megan called from the couch, 'we’re waiting.'

'I’m coming.' You replied, nudging the final straw into place.

One by one, you handed them out.

Daniela took hers with a grateful smile, Sophia immediately inspecting hers like she was judging presentation, Yoonchae thanking you softly.

Manon gave you a small nod, already mid-conversation with someone else. And Lara didn’t take hers right away. She waited as she was watching you.

You noticed, of course. You always did.

'You gonna take yours or are you just gonna stare at me?' You asked, raising an eyebrow slightly as you held the glass out.

She smiled, slow and unapologetic. 'Both.' She said, finally taking it.

You huffed a quiet laugh, shaking your head as you grabbed your own drink.

The couch was full, so you settled beside Lara—not right beside her. About a foot of space between you. Just enough. You adjusted carefully as you sat, making sure your drink didn’t tilt.

For a moment everything was normal. People talking, ice clinking in cups, someone laughing too loudly at something that wasn’t even that funny.

You took a sip, settling back slightly, your attention shifting toward Manon as she started explaining something across the room.

And then—

'…Why are you all the way over there?'

You didn’t even need to look. Lara’s voice was soft, but genuinely offended.

You turned your head slightly.

'I’m not 'all the way over there,'' you said, gesturing vaguely between you. 'There’s literally, like, half a foot of space.'

'That’s far.' She replied immediately.

You stared at her. '…It’s not.'

'It is,' she insisted, 'I can’t even reach you properly.'

You took another sip of your drink, unfazed, 'You’re being dramatic.'

'I can’t kiss you if you’re all the way on Mars, babe.'

That made you pause just for a second.

'…Mars?' You repeated, trying not to laugh.

She nodded, completely serious. 'Different planet. Whole different atmosphere. Not ideal for affection.'

You shook your head, looking away again. 'You’re unbelievable.'

'I’m suffering.' She added quietly.

You deliberately ignored her as you turned your attention fully to Manon now.

'Wait—what were you saying about the waist beads?' You asked, leaning forward slightly with genuine curiosity.

Manon nodded, adjusting slightly where she sat.

'Yeah—it’s cultural,' she explained. 'They can represent different things depending on where you’re from. For me, it’s more about identity and—'

You were fully listening, interested. But beside you Lara had shifted. Louder this time, more noticeable.

You didn’t look.

'…I’m being ignored.' She murmured.

'You’re fine,' you replied absentmindedly, still focused on Manon. 'Keep going.'

Manon smiled faintly and continued. 'It can also be about femininity, confidence—sometimes even milestones. Like growth, or—'

'Wow,' Lara muttered, just loud enough for you to hear, 'I guess I don’t exist anymore.'

You exhaled slowly through your nose, still not looking at her.

'I’m literally right here.' You said.

'Are you?' She shot back.

Before you could respond, her hand reached out. Not grabbing your arm, not pulling harshly. Just taking your wrist and gently tugging.

'Lara—' You started, but your balance shifted slightly, your drink tilting just enough to make you pause.

'Wait—hold on—'

'Put it down.' She said simply.

You hesitated. Then sighed. '…Fine.'

You leaned forward, setting your iced coffee carefully on the table. And the second your hands were free, she pulled you. Not aggressively, but decisively.

Your back met her chest as she guided you into place, your body settling between her legs on the couch, your shoulders naturally aligning with hers. Familiar and easy.

Her arms wrapped around you immediately. One draped across your upper chest, the other sliding more securely around your waist.

You exhaled softly, your body relaxing without even thinking about it.

'Much better.' She murmured, her voice right by your ear now.

You leaned back into her slightly, still trying to focus.

'Sorry—continue.' You said to Manon, like nothing had happened.

Manon raised an eyebrow, but didn’t comment.

'…As I was saying,' she continued, 'they can also be used to track body changes. Some people use them as a way to stay connected to their body—'

You nodded, genuinely engaged. 'That’s actually really interesting. So it’s not just—'

Behind you, Lara shifted again. One of her hands slid slightly higher, resting more comfortably, more securely on your breast.

You paused mid-sentence, slowly looking down at her hand before turning your head just enough to look at her. A clear, silent are you being for real right now? in your expression.

Lara didn’t even look back at you. Instead, she glanced toward Manon.

'Continue.' She said casually, like nothing had happened.

Manon stared at her for a beat. Then shook her head slowly, a faint smile tugging at her lips. '…Right.'

Lara moved to rest her chin lightly against your shoulder now, her presence fully wrapped around you.

You tried to not acknowledge it any further. But your body melted just a little more into hers.

'—and so depending on the colour, they can have different meanings too.' Manon finished.

You nodded slowly. 'That’s really beautiful, actually,' you said softly. 'I never realised how much meaning there was behind them.'

'Yeah,' Manon smiled. 'It’s something I’ve always been connected to.'

You glanced down briefly, thoughtful.

Behind you, Lara pressed a soft, absentminded kiss against the side of your head.

You didn’t stop talking, didn’t break the conversation, but your lips curved slightly. Small and barely noticeable. Because as much as she was clingy—as much as she always needed to be touching you in rather questionable places, holding you, pulling you closer—you loved it.

You really, really loved it.

And honestly? You probably would’ve ended up in her arms anyway. She just didn’t like waiting for that part.

---

Another time was during rehearsals, of course, since that’s where you all seemed to spend most of your time. The music cut out abruptly. Not because the choreo ended, but because everyone physically couldn’t keep going.

'Five minutes.' Someone called from by the speakers.

No one argued.

The room fell into that heavy kind of silence that only came after hours of nonstop movement.

Breathing filled the space as shoes squeaked faintly against the floor. The low hum of exhaustion settling into everyone’s bodies.

You sat down slowly, wincing just slightly as you bent your knee. It wasn’t bad. Not bad enough to stop. Just enough to be annoying, persistent.

Lara noticed immediately.

'Sit properly.' She said, already crouching down in front of you.

'I am sitting properly.' You muttered, adjusting your leg slightly.

'No, you’re not.' She replied, completely unfazed.

Before you could argue further, she reached for the knee brace resting beside your bag.

You sighed, but didn’t stop her.

Her hands were gentle, careful as she guided your leg forward slightly, her touch firm enough to be steady but soft enough not to aggravate anything.

'Does this hurt?' She asked, adjusting the brace into place.

'A little.' You admitted.

Her brows knit together just slightly. Not dramatic, but enough to show she cared more than she was letting on.

'Tell me if it gets worse.' She said quietly.

'I will.'

You watched her for a second, on the way she focused, on the way her fingers worked carefully around your knee, tightening the brace just enough. She always got like this when it came to you. Attentive.

'Okay,' she murmured, pressing the last strap into place. 'Try that.'

You shifted your leg slightly.

'It's better, thanks.' You said softly.

She glanced up at you and smiled just a little. Then reached for your water bottle.

You blinked. 'Hey... that’s mine.'

'I know.'

She took a sip anyway.

You stared at her. 'But... but you have your own.'

'I don’t like mine.'

'…It’s the same brand.'

'Yours tastes better.'

You let out a quiet huff of disbelief, shaking your head. 'That makes no sense.'

She took another sip. 'Still better.'

Across the room, Daniela froze mid-stretch as she tuned into the end of your conversation.

'… I’m sorry—what?' She said, slowly turning to look at the two of you.

You frowned slightly. 'What?'

Daniela’s face shifted into something between horror and confusion. '…I’m not even going to ask.'

You blinked again. 'Ask what?'

Before she could respond—Manon, who had clearly understood the situation properly, suddenly let out a laugh.

Not a small one. A full, uncontrollable, losing it kind of laugh.

'OH—' she tried to speak, but couldn’t, covering her mouth as she leaned forward slightly. 'No, no, no—Dani—'

'What?' Daniela demanded, looking between all of you.

Manon shook her head, still laughing. 'You heard that wrong.'

'I definitely didn’t.'

'You did,' Manon insisted, barely holding it together now. 'You absolutely did.'

The rest of the room started looking over. Confused but curious.

'What’s happening?' Megan asked.

'Nothing.' You said quickly.

'Something.' Daniela shot back.

Sophia, who had been listening from where she stood nearby, narrowed her eyes slightly.

'Wait—what did I miss?' She asked, stepping closer. 'What are we talking about?'

Manon wheezed again at that. Because that was exactly the problem.

'It’s just—' Manon tried, failing again almost immediately. 'She said—'

Lara, meanwhile, was completely unbothered, still sitting beside you while holding your bottle like she had committed no crime whatsoever.

Sophia looked between all of you now. 'What?' She asks, hoping someone would just get to the point.

Daniela pointed immediately. 'She said hers tastes better.'

'What tastes better?!' Sophia asked instantly, her voice rising slightly as she stepped closer. 'Like—what are we even talking about right now?'

Manon was still visibly trying not to laugh, which was making it worse.

'Water,' Manon finally managed, breathless. 'It’s just… water.'

Sophia went completely still. '…Water.'

'Yes,' Manon said quickly, already losing it again. 'Lara said Y/N's water tastes better, even though it’s literally the same—'

Sophia stared at Manon, then at Daniela, then at you and then finally at Lara. She exhaled through her nose, already done.

Manon immediately lifted her hands in defence.

'No, no—wait, I can explain,' she said quickly, still barely holding back laughter. 'It’s just that Daniela heard it completely out of context, right? And I understood what they meant, so it was funny because—because—'

She paused, realising she was making it worse.

'Okay, no,' she admitted, shaking her head, a smile still fighting its way through. 'You kind of just had to be there.'

'You people are unbelievable.' Sophia muttered. Then she turned around and walked away.

Manon lost it completely after that. Daniela looked like she was questioning her life choices.

You blinked slowly. '…What just happened?'

Lara tilted her head slightly, still completely calm, still holding your bottle like nothing in the universe had changed. 'I don't know, I wasn’t really listening… I was thinking about you.'

You blinked. '…What?'

She shrugged faintly, like it was the most normal thing in the world. 'You look so cute when you're confused, I got distracted.'

You let out a quiet breath through your nose as you shake your head a little, still trying to process the absolute chaos unfolding around you.

'Can I have that back now?' You asked, reaching for it.

She handed it over reluctantly. You took a sip.

'… literally tastes the same.'

She shrugged. 'Not to me.'

You rolled your eyes—but your lips curved slightly.

Later, after another run-through, after more hours, after your body felt like it had reached its limit, you ended up lying on the floor.

Flat on your back, arms slightly spread out, completely done in.

'Don’t move.' You muttered to no one in particular.

'I wasn’t planning on it.' Megan replied from somewhere nearby.

A few seconds passed. Then Lara dropped down beside you. She shifted immediately, turning onto her side so she could face you and then leaned in.

Her arms wrapped around you without hesitation, pulling you into her.

You let out a soft breath as your body adjusted, turning slightly so you could fit more comfortably against her. Her head tucked into the space just below your chin.

Your arm came up automatically, resting across her back.

'You’re warm.' She murmured.

'You’re clingy.' You replied.

'Mhm.'

There was no denial as she held you a little tighter.

The room was quieter now as everyone is recovering, catching their breath.

You stared up at the ceiling for a moment. Then asked, 'What do you want for dinner?'

She hummed softly but didn’t answer right away.

'I don’t know.' She admitted after a second.

You tilted your head slightly, thinking. 'I could get you that thing you like,' you said. 'From the place near the apartment.'

She shifted slightly. 'What thing?'

You glanced down at her. 'Your favourite. The... what is it? Rasam.'

There was a pause, a very noticeable one.

Then she lifted her head slightly, looking at you properly now. '…You’d get that for me?' She asked, softer than before.

You shrugged slightly. 'Yeah. You like it.'

That was it. Something in her expression shifted instantly. Softened.

Before you could even process it, she leaned in and kissed you. Quick but gentle and full of something real.

You blinked, slightly caught off guard. 'What was that for?' You asked quietly.

She smiled that same soft, almost shy smile she only really gave you. 'Nothing.' She said.

Then, after a second, softer, '…Everything.'

She tucked herself back against you, arms wrapping around you again like she never intended to let go.

And honestly? You didn’t mind one bit.

---

Another example of Lara's clinginess was when you were on tour. The bus hummed softly beneath you. Not loud, not disruptive, just constant.

It was the kind of background noise you stopped noticing after a while—the low engine, the occasional shift in gears, the faint rattle of something in a cupboard that no one had properly secured.

Outside, it was dark. Inside, it was dim.

Most of the lights were off, save for a few small lamps near the bunks and the faint glow from phone screens scattered throughout the bus.

You were in your bunk. Curled slightly on your side, one arm tucked under your pillow, the other holding your phone just above your face, mindlessly scrolling.

Your body was tired. Not just sleepy tired, but deep, bone-level exhaustion that came from weeks of performing, travelling, repeating the same cycle over and over again.

But your brain was wide awake.

You scrolled through video after video, barely processing any of them. A dance, a meme, someone cooking something you’d never attempt.

You exhaled softly, shifting slightly to get more comfortable when the curtain to your bunk moved.

You barely reacted.

Lara.

You turned your head just slightly as she stuck her head in, already assessing where she's going to lie.

'There you are.' She says sleepily, like she’d been looking for you for hours instead of two seconds.

You smiled faintly. 'I’ve been here the whole time.'

'Mhm.' She hummed, not really listening.

She didn’t even hesitate, didn’t even ask. She just crawled in properly and immediately curled up on top of you. Her head settling against your chest, her arm draping across your stomach, one leg hooked loosely over yours.

Full body contact with no space left to breathe.

You let out a quiet breath, instinctively shifting your phone out of the way so it didn’t hit her.

'You have your own bunk, y'know.' You murmured.

'Don’t want it.'

Of course she didn’t.

You adjusted slightly, moving your body just enough to give her more space. Which, realistically meant you were now closer to the edge. Like… dangerously close.

But you didn’t push her away. You didn’t even consider it. Instead, your free hand came up, resting lightly against her back.

She sighed, soft and content. And within seconds she was asleep. Just like that.

You stared at the ceiling for a moment, then down at her. Her breathing had already evened out, her grip on you just loose enough to be relaxed—but still there. Still holding you.

'Unbelievable.' You whispered, though there was no real complaint behind it.

You shifted slightly again, trying to get comfortable without disturbing her.

The bus hit a small bump. Nothing major. Just enough to make everything shake slightly.

You stilled, hoping it hadn't woken Lara up. It was then that you realised you were really close to the edge now.

You glanced down, then back up.

'…Oh that's a long way down.' You muttered.

There was another bump. Your body shifted just a little. Lara didn’t move, didn’t wake up. Still completely dead asleep on top of you. You tightened your grip on her instinctively.

'Okay—this is fine—'

The bus hit yet another bump. A proper bump this time. And suddenly you were falling. It wasn’t graceful, it wasn’t slow. You just dropped. A very real, very solid thud echoed through the bus.

'OW—'

You landed on your side, tangled slightly in the blanket that had fallen with you, your phone clattering somewhere beside you.

There was a moment of silence.

Then a quiet, 'Y/N… Where’d you go?'

You blinked up at the bunk where Lara was. Soon her head peered over the edge as she blinked sleepily at you.

'…You left.' She said, voice thick with sleep.

'I fell.' You corrected, wincing slightly as you pushed yourself up.

'Oh.'

She stared at you, almost like she was processing. Then suddenl she moved. Fast. Well—fast for someone who had been asleep two seconds ago.

She scrambled out of the bunk, nearly tripping over the blanket in the process.

'Are you okay?' She asked, crouching down in front of you.

'I’m fine.' You said, though your pride was slightly injured.

'You fell.' She repeated, like this was the most serious thing that had ever happened.

'Yes, Lara, I’m aware.'

She reached out, brushing her hands lightly over your arms like she was checking for damage. 'You could’ve gotten hurt.'

'I didn’t.'

'You might’ve.'

You looked at her, really looked at her. Her hair was a mess, her eyes half-lidded with sleep, her voice still soft and groggy. And yet, she was fully focused on you.

You softened slightly. 'I’m okay.' You repeated, gentler this time.

She stared at you for another second. Then nodded, 'Okay.'

A second went by before she stood up. 'Come here.'

You blinked. 'What?'

'We're sleeping in my bunk,' she said, already moving, 'It’s lower.'

You hesitated. '…You’re kicking me out of mine?'

'I’m upgrading you.' She corrected.

You huffed a small laugh, but followed her anyway.

Her bunk was lower, safer, less… fall risk.

She crawled in first this time, adjusting the blanket before looking back at you expectantly. 'Come on.'

You shook your head slightly, but climbed in. The space was tighter, but that didn’t matter. Because the second you were in, she pulled you down with her.

She manoeuvred you so your back pressed against the mattress as she pressed her body into your side, her arm wrapping around you like nothing had happened, like this was always the plan.

'There,' she murmured, already settling in again. 'that's better.'

You let out a quiet breath. 'Yeah.' You admitted.

Her head found your shoulder this time, her leg hooking loosely over yours again. But now, you weren’t on the edge. There was no risk.

You adjusted slightly, your arm coming up around her. And within seconds, she was asleep again.

You stared at the ceiling for a moment. Then closed your eyes.

'…I literally fell out of a bunk.' You muttered quietly.

'Mhm.' She hummed, already half gone again.

And just like that, everything settled.

What neither of you realised, was that from across the bus, Sophia had seen everything, phone in hand, camera rolling.

She zoomed in slightly on the two of you now tucked into the lower bunk, tangled together like nothing had happened.

She whispered, barely containing her laughter, 'Not her falling out and still ending up cuddling…'

The video cut there.

And you?

You’d have no idea it existed. At least, not yet.

---

You were an affectionate person by nature, but not usually around other people. Most of your softer moments were saved for when it was just you and Lara—where affection came easier, quieter, and without thought.

Which was exactly why the girls noticed the moment you walked straight towards her.

You’d been awake for hours. But not by choice.

It started early, too early. That uncomfortable, restless kind of waking where your body just refuses to stay asleep.

At first, you tried to ignore it. Shifted positions, pulled the blanket tighter, turned your pillow over to the cooler side.

Of course it didn’t work. Because the cramps had already settled in. Low, heavy and persistent.

You let out a slow breath, curling slightly onto your side, one hand pressing instinctively against your lower stomach.

'Seriously…' You mumbled into your pillow.

You reached for the pain meds on your bedside table, took them and waited for them to kick in.

Nothing. Not even a dent.

'Great.' You muttered.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the headache lingered. The migraine itself had passed—that horrible blur, the sensitivity, the can’t even open your eyes properly part—but what it left behind?

A dull, pounding ache that sat right behind your eyes. Every movement just reminded you it was there.

You stared at the ceiling for a moment. Hungry, tired, sore and just very uncomfortable in your own body.

And you couldn’t even get comfortable. Every position felt wrong. Too much pressure, not enough support, something always felt off.

You groaned softly, dragging a hand down your face. 'Okay… okay.' You murmured to yourself.

You needed something, you just didn’t know what. But then, you did.

You pushed yourself up slowly, wincing slightly as your body protested the movement. One hand instinctively pressed against your lower back this time.

'Lara.' You mumbled under your breath.

It wasn’t a decision you thought through, not really. It was just instinct. You shuffled out of your room, moving slower than usual, your steps slightly heavier.

Voices carried from the living room, normal, calm.

'…I’m just saying, communication matters more than anything.' Sophia was saying.

You stepped into the doorway. The scene was soft, familiar.

Sophia and Lara were on the couch, turned slightly toward each other, deep in conversation. Manon sat nearby, scrolling through her phone, occasionally chiming into Daniela’s separate conversation.

Everything felt normal, except you. You let out a small groan as you stepped further in.

Four heads turned immediately.

'Hey—' Manon’s expression shifted first, concern settling in, 'You okay?'

You paused and considered answering properly. But the words didn’t really come.

'Mm… no.' You mumbled instead, voice low and rough, barely more than a grumble.

You kept walking. Straight past them, straight to Lara. She barely had time to react because you didn’t stop.

You just climbed onto her lap with no hesitation, no warning. One second she was mid-conversation and the next, you were there. Settling yourself between her legs, turning slightly so your side pressed into her, your head dropping forward against her shoulder.

'Hi.' You mumbled, already curling into her.

There was a long moment of silence before Lara’s entire body shifted, softened, opened. Her arms came around you instantly like it was the most natural response in the world.

'Hey,' she said, voice dropping immediately, all her attention snapping to you. 'What’s wrong?'

Sophia blinked. '…Okay—'

But Lara didn’t even hear her. Her hands moved gently over your arms, your back, grounding, checking, there.

You let out a quiet breath as she pulled you closer, your body relaxing almost immediately into hers.

'Cramps,' you muttered against her shoulder. 'And my head… and I didn’t sleep properly…'

She frowned slightly, her hand coming up to rest lightly against the side of your head. 'Hey…' She murmured, softer now.

Her chin rested gently against the top of your head as her grip tightened just slightly.

'Did you take anything?' She asked.

'Mhm. Didn’t work.'

She hummed quietly, her thumb starting slow, absentminded circles against your arm. 'You’re warm.' She noted softly.

'I feel like I’m dying.' You mumbled.

That got a small breath of a laugh out of her. Not because it was funny, but because of the way you said it.

'I’ve got you.' She said, pressing a soft kiss into your hair.

You didn’t respond, you just sank further into her.

Behind you, Sophia was still sitting there, processing. '…I was literally mid-sentence.' She said, slightly offended.

Daniela looked over, then back at her. '…Yeah,' she said slowly, 'but… look.'

Sophia followed her gaze. You—curled into Lara, completely unbothered by anyone else in the room. Lara—wrapped around you like nothing else existed.

'…Oh.' Sophia said.

Manon glanced up from her phone, immediately understanding.

Daniela leaned slightly toward Sophia, lowering her voice just enough— 'Yeah, this doesn’t usually happen.'

Sophia frowned slightly. 'What do you mean?'

'She goes to her,' Daniela clarified quietly, nodding toward you, 'but not like… this.'

Not like this, not in the middle of a room, not without caring who was watching, not without hesitation.

Manon smiled faintly, watching the two of you. 'It’s rare,' she added. 'She usually waits. Or pulls her aside.'

Sophia’s expression softened. 'Oh.'

Across from them—

Lara adjusted the blanket draped over the back of the couch, pulling it around you without even thinking. Her hand moved back to your arm, still tracing slow patterns, still grounding.

'You want me to make you something?' She asked quietly.

You shook your head slightly. 'Just stay, please.'

She stilled for a second at that. Not because it was unusual that you wanted her, but because of how you said it.

Soft, tired and needy in a way you didn’t usually show so openly.

She didn’t hesitate. 'Okay.' She murmured immediately, tightening her hold around you just a little.

Her hand moved slowly up your arm, then back down again, a steady, calming motion. She was quiet for a moment, thinking.

Then, softly asked, 'Hey… do you want me to get you something? Like—actual help, not just me.' She added gently.

You huffed faintly. 'You are actual help.'

She smiled a little at that, pressing a soft kiss into your hair. 'I know, but like—' she hesitated, then continued, 'my mom sent me some stuff. Natural things for cramps and headaches.'

You shifted slightly, just enough to look up at her. 'Like what?'

'It’s Indian medication,' she explained quietly. 'Herbal tablets… and there’s this oil too. It’s meant to help with pain—like, really help. She swears by it.'

You blinked slowly, processing. 'Does it work?' You asked.

'It does for me,' she said simply. 'And she uses it all the time.'

You considered it. You didn’t usually try new things like that. But right now? You’d try anything.

'…Okay.' You murmured.

She nodded once. 'Yeah?'

'Yeah,' you said softly, then added, tightening your hold on her slightly, 'But you can’t move.'

She let out a small breath of a laugh. 'Of course.'

She didn’t even try to get up. Instead, she looked past you, 'Sophia.'

Sophia blinked. '…Why am I involved?'

'My bag,' Lara said, completely serious, 'The big one. In my room.'

Sophia stared at her. 'The big one?'

'Mhm.'

'The one that weighs, like, ten kilos for no reason?'

'It has things in it.' Lara defended mildly.

Daniela snorted. 'It has everything in it.'

Manon was already smiling.

Sophia sighed dramatically, pushing herself up from the couch. 'I was having a conversation.' She muttered.

'You’ll survive.' Lara replied calmly.

'You owe me.' Sophia added, pointing at her as she walked off.

'Yeah, yeah.'

You shifted slightly against Lara as the room settled again. Your eyes had already drifted half-shut. 'Told you not to carry that everywhere.' You mumbled.

'And yet,' she said softly, brushing her fingers through your hair, 'it’s helping right now.'

You hummed faintly. Couldn’t argue with that.

A few moments later, there was a thud.

Sophia dropped the bag down beside the couch. 'There,' she said. 'If I’ve dislocated something, I expect compensation.'

'Thank you.' Lara replied, already reaching for it. She unzipped it with one hand, the other still securely around you.

'Of course you can do this one-handed.' Daniela muttered.

'Practice.' Lara said simply.

You felt her shift slightly as she searched through the bag, her arm tightening around you briefly to keep you close.

'Okay,' she murmured, pulling something out, 'Here.'

You opened your eyes just enough to see a small container. Simple, nothing intimidating.

'They’re herbal tablets,' she explained softly. 'Mostly things like ginger, turmeric, and ajwain—it’s supposed to help with cramps and inflammation.'

You nodded slowly.

'And this,' she added, reaching back into the bag and pulling out a small bottle, 'is oil. You rub it on your lower stomach or back. It helps relax everything.'

You blinked at it. '…You carry all this around?'

'Mhm.'

'Of course you do.' You muttered.

She smiled faintly. 'Sit up just a little.' She said gently.

You groaned quietly—but did it anyway, shifting just enough for her to guide you.

She handed you the tablets first, grabbing her own water. 'Take these.' She said softly.

You did, without question. Then she poured a small amount of oil into her hand.

Before you could really react, she shifted slightly—guiding you with a gentle hand at your side. 'Turn this way.' She said softly.

You followed without thinking, your body already heavy and compliant, turning so you were facing her fully now—your back angled toward the rest of the room.

Shielded, it was subtle but intentional.

Her knee nudged slightly between yours to steady you, one arm still wrapped securely around your back to keep you close as she adjusted you into a more comfortable position.

Then her other hand moved. Careful and respectful as she adjusted the waistband of your joggers slightly—just enough to give her access, nothing more.

It wasn’t rushed, wasn’t careless, just quiet consideration.

From where the others sat, it looked like nothing more than you curled into her—her arms around you, holding you close.

But in that small space between you, she took care of you properly. Her hand settled against your lower stomach, warm now from the oil.

You exhaled softly at the contact, your forehead dipping forward to rest lightly against her shoulder.

Her touch was slow, gentle with small circular motions, consistent and grounding, her focus entirely on easing the tension she knew was sitting there.

'Okay?' She asked quietly, her voice close to your ear.

You nodded faintly against her. '…Yeah.'

The warmth spread gradually this time. Not overwhelming, just easing.

Her arm around your back tightened slightly, pulling you closer into her chest as she continued, keeping you tucked in, hidden from view without making it obvious. Like this moment was just yours.

Your hands curled lightly into the fabric of her hoodie, holding onto her without thinking.

She noticed. Of course she did.

And her movements softened even more. Slower, more deliberate. She didn’t press hard. Just slow, circular motions as the warmth spread gradually. It wasn't instant relief—but it was something, something softer.

You let out a quiet breath, your body relaxing almost immediately under her touch.

'Better?' She asked softly.

'…Yeah.' You admitted.

Her hand moved slowly, rhythm steady, consistent. Her other arm stayed wrapped around you, holding you in place, keeping you close.

'You’re not allowed to go anywhere.' You mumbled.

'I’m not going anywhere.' She replied. And she meant it.

Behind you, Sophia sat back down, watching the whole thing with a softer expression now.

'…Okay.' She said quietly, more to herself than anyone else.

Daniela glanced at her. 'Yeah.'

Manon just smiled. Because this wasn’t something they saw often. Not you like this, not so openly, not so softly needing.

But Lara? Lara looked like this was exactly where she was meant to be. Holding you, taking care of you. Not letting go.

And you, you weren’t letting her go either.

Lara stayed like that for a while. One arm wrapped securely around you, the other resting lightly where she’d been helping, her touch now still—gentle, grounding, present.

She looked down at you, really looked. Your face was tucked into her chest, your breathing slower now, your body finally starting to loosen where it had been tense all morning.

Your grip on her hoodie hadn’t gone anywhere. If anything, it had tightened just slightly.

She smiled as her thumb brushed lightly over your arm, absentminded, careful not to disturb you.

For a moment, everything else faded out again. Just like it always did.

But then she glanced up and froze. Because they were all watching. Sophia, Manon and Daniela.

Not staring in a weird way. Not teasing. Just smiling, knowing.

Lara blinked once, then immediately looked away. '…Don’t.' She muttered under her breath, a faint flush creeping up her cheeks.

Daniela grinned. 'We didn’t say anything.'

'You didn’t have to.' Lara mumbled.

Manon just shook her head softly, still smiling to herself.

Sophia leaned back slightly, arms crossing as she watched the two of you for another second before speaking again. '…Anyway,' she said, picking the conversation back up, though her tone had softened, 'as I was saying—communication.'

Lara let out a quiet breath, trying to compose herself a little. But her arm around you didn’t move, didn’t loosen.

'Yeah.' She said, nodding slightly.

Sophia tilted her head. 'Like actually saying what you need. Not expecting the other person to just… guess.'

Lara hummed quietly. Then almost instinctively, she glanced down at you again. Still tucked into her, still holding onto her, still there.

A small smile returned before she could stop it. 'I mean…' She said, voice softer now. She gestured lightly toward you with the hand that wasn’t wrapped around you.

'…this is a pretty good example.'

You shifted slightly at that, but didn’t lift your head. Still half-buried into her.

Sophia followed her gaze. '…Yeah.' She admitted.

Lara’s fingers brushed lightly over your arm again. Absentmindedly and affectionately.

'She always comes to me,' she added quietly. 'If something’s wrong. Or if she’s overwhelmed. Or—' she paused briefly, her expression softening again, '—even if she just needs… this.'

Her arm tightened around you just slightly.

You didn’t say anything, didn’t need to. But your hand shifted against her hoodie. A small, unconscious squeeze.

Lara felt it immediately and her smile deepened just a fraction.

'And you respond.' Sophia pointed out.

'Of course I do.' Lara replied, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. There was no hesitation in it, no second thought. Just certainty.

Sophia watched her for a moment then nodded. '…Yeah. That’s kind of the whole point.'

A quiet settled over the room again. Not awkward, just warm.

Lara adjusted the blanket around you slightly, making sure you were still comfortable, still covered, still close.

Her chin rested lightly against the top of your head again. And this time, she didn’t bother hiding the smile.

You stare at the ceiling for a moment, blinking slowly, trying to gather your thoughts. They don’t gather. They scatter in fragments.

The restaurant. The empty chair. Your phone lighting up with nothing. Sophia’s voice—'I’ve liked you for a while.' The way she said 'I can wait' like it didn’t cost her anything.

Your brain doesn’t know where to land, so it just keeps moving.

You push yourself up eventually, dragging a hand down your face. Your room still smells faintly like your shampoo from last night, something soft and clean.

Your eyes flick to the plant on your windowsill. You haven’t watered it in… a while.

You get up, almost on autopilot, grabbing a water bottle from your nightstand. You pour a little too much at first, then pause, adjusting, watching the soil darken slowly.

It feels like something you can control. Something small, manageable.

You set the bottle down carefully as your reflection in the window catches your eye. Bare face. Slightly tired. A little softer than usual.

You stare at yourself for a second longer than necessary. Then you leave the room.

The kitchen is already occupied. Of course it is. Lara and Daniela are mid-argument, voices overlapping in that familiar, chaotic rhythm.

'You cannot just eat dry cereal out of the box like that—'

'I absolutely can and I am—'

'It’s unhinged behaviour!'

Yoonchae is half-asleep at the table, cheek pressed to her arm, hair slightly messy, blinking slowly like she hasn’t fully loaded into the day yet. Megan is leaning against the counter, scrolling on her phone, occasionally glancing up like she’s keeping track of everything at once.

Manon is by the sink, pouring herself a glass of water, calm as ever. Observing. Always observing.

And Sophia is at the stove.

Your steps slow slightly.

She’s already cooking. Not just standing there. Not just making something quick for herself. Actually cooking.

There’s a pan on the stove. You hear it before you fully register it—the soft sizzle of something frying. The faint smell of bacon hits you a second later, warm and salty, curling through the air.

You hover near the counter, not fully stepping in yet. Your brain is still doing that thing—jumping. From the plant. To the date. To Sophia in your room last night. To the way your chest felt when she hugged you.

You reach for a mug without really thinking. The same one from last night, apparently, because it’s already half-filled with coffee. Its cold, but you bring it to your lips anyway and take a small sip. It’s not good.

You don’t react. You just… hold it.

Manon glances at you as she passes. 'You’re thinking too loudly.' She says casually.

You blink. 'I just woke up.'

She hums. 'Exactly.'

You huff softly, but you don’t argue. Because she’s not wrong.

You finally step fully into the kitchen. 'Morning.' You mumble, voice still a little rough.

A chorus of half-awake replies meets you.

'Morning.' 'Hi.' 'You look dead.' 'Ignore her.' Megan adds without looking up.

You manage a small smile. Your eyes flick—without permission—toward Sophia.

She hasn’t turned around yet. But you can tell she knows you’re there. There’s a slight shift in her posture. Subtle. Almost nothing.

But you notice. Because now you’re noticing everything.

You lean against the counter, mug still in your hands, letting the warmth that isn’t there pretend to be something.

'I’m not hungry.' You say absently, mostly to no one in particular.

It just comes out. Because you’re not. Or at least, you don’t think you are. Your stomach feels weird. Not empty. Just… unsettled.

Behind you, Lara gasps. 'Blasphemy.'

'It’s 10 a.m.,' Daniela adds. 'That’s prime eating time.'

You shrug slightly. 'I’ll muster something up later.'

'Mhm.' Sophia’s voice.

You go still. It’s quiet, noncommittal. But it lands. She still hasn’t turned around.

You stare down at your coffee instead. A minute passes. Maybe two.

Your brain drifts again. Back to the restaurant. The way the chair across from you stayed empty. The way you kept checking your phone like something might magically change. Then—uninvited— Sophia’s voice again. 'I’ve liked you for a while.'

Your grip on the mug tightens slightly. You take another sip of the cold coffee just to do something. It’s worse now. You don’t even react.

'Give me that.'

You blink as the mug is gently taken from your hands before you can process what’s happening.

You look up at Sophia. She’s right in front of you now, closer than you expected.

Your brain stalls for half a second. 'It’s fine—' You start automatically.

'It’s not.' She says simply.

Not sharp, not annoyed, just factual. She turns away before you can respond, already moving toward the microwave.

You watch her.

The way she moves is efficient. Quietly purposeful. Like she’s done this a hundred times, even if she hasn’t.

She opens the microwave, places your mug inside, sets the time without hesitation.

You frown slightly. 'You don’t have to—'

'I know.'

She doesn’t look at you when she says it. That does something to your chest. You don’t push it.

The microwave hums softly as Sophia turns back to the stove, flipping something in the pan. You finally look properly. Eggs and bacon, plated already for the most part.

The microwave beeps. She pulls your mug out, tests the side of it with her fingers briefly, then walks back over.

She sets it in front of you again. This time, it’s warm. Actually warm. You stare at it for a second. 'Thanks.' You say quietly.

She nods once. 'Drink it before it goes cold again.'

There’s the smallest hint of something in her tone. Not quite teasing. Something softer. Familiar.

You wrap your hands around the mug again. This time, the warmth settles into your palms properly.

You’re still not paying attention when she sets the plate down. It happens without announcement. Without asking. Its just there, in front of you.

You blink, looking down. Eggs. Bacon. Toast. Perfectly done.

You look up at her, confused. 'I said I wasn’t hungry.'

'I know.' She says.

You wait for more. It doesn’t come.

'Then why—'

'Because you didn’t eat last night.' She replies.

It's simple and direct. Your mouth opens slightly, then closes again.

You didn’t realise she noticed that. You barely noticed it yourself. But of course she did. You look back down at the plate. Then at your hands. Then at her again.

'You didn’t have to do all that.' You say softly.

She shrugs, leaning back against the counter now. 'It’s just eggs.'

It’s not just eggs. You both know that.

The room continues around you. Lara is still talking. Daniela is still arguing. Yoonchae has shifted positions but is still half-asleep. Megan is watching something on her phone. Manon is quietly sipping her drink.

But it all feels… distant. Muted. Because your focus keeps drifting back. To her. To the plate in front of you. To the way she didn’t make a big deal out of it.

Didn’t ask if you wanted it. Didn’t push. She just did it. Because she knew.

You pick up your fork slowly and take a small bite. You are hungry. You just didn’t realise it. The food is warm and comforting, exactly what you didn’t know you needed.

Your shoulders drop slightly. Just a little.

Across from you, Sophia watches. Not obviously. Not in a way anyone else would notice. But she does. She watches the way you actually start eating, the way your grip on the mug relaxes, the way your breathing evens out just slightly.

Relief flickers through her chest. Quiet. Contained.

Your mind drifts again. But this time, it’s different. It’s not just the restaurant or the empty chair or the unanswered texts.

It’s this.

The plant in your room that got watered. The coffee in your hands that got reheated. The plate in front of you that was made without asking. And suddenly—a thought slips in. Uninvited but soft.

She’s always been like this. Not loud about it and never obvious. But steady, consistent and always there.

You swallow and take another bite. Your chest feels full in a way that has nothing to do with the food. You glance up to see she’s already looking at you. Not intensely. Not searching. Just present.

You hold her gaze for a second longer than usual. 'It’s good.' You say quietly.

Her lips press together slightly. Not quite a smile. But close.

'Good.' She replies.

And then she looks away first. Giving you space again. Like she promised. Like she meant it.

You sit there for a while just eating slowly and drinking your coffee before it goes cold again. Your thoughts are still messy, still scattered. But they're softer now. Less sharp. Less heavy.

Because even if nothing is figured out yet, even if everything is still complicated, there’s one thing your brain keeps circling back to, over and over. Steady and certain.

She showed up. She’s still showing up. And you’re starting to realise that maybe she always has.

---

The dorm is quieter than usual when you start getting ready. It's not empty—but calmer.

A few doors are closed. Music is faint somewhere down the hall. The kind of afternoon where everyone’s either out, busy, or halfway between plans.

You tug on your hoodie, adjusting the sleeves absently as you check your phone. Wallet. Keys. Headphones.

You hesitate by the door for a second. 'Hey,' you call out, raising your voice just slightly. 'I’m going out. Does anyone need anything?'

There’s a beat as a door creaks open. Lara pokes her head out first. 'Where are you going?'

'Grocery store,' you reply. 'Just grabbing a few things.'

'Ooooh.' She considers it. 'Snacks?'

'You already have snacks.'

'Those are emergency snacks.'

You snort softly. 'So… no?'

She sighs dramatically. 'No.'

Another door opens—Daniela this time, phone in hand. 'If you see those chocolate things—'

'That narrows it down so much.' You deadpan.

She grins. 'You know the ones.'

You don’t.

'Text me a picture.' You say.

'Okay... actually I won’t need them that badly.' She decides immediately, disappearing back into her room.

Yoonchae appears next, quieter, leaning against the doorframe. 'Maybe tea?' She offers.

'We have tea.'

She nods thoughtfully. 'Then no.'

Megan’s voice drifts from the living room. 'Get yourself something nice.'

You glance over, smiling faintly. 'I will.'

Manon appears last, arms folded loosely. 'Don’t carry too much.'

You huff a small laugh. 'I never do.'

She raises a brow.

You ignore that. Your eyes flick, almost automatically, down the hallway. Sophia’s door is closed.

You hesitate for half a second. Then shake it off. 'Okay. I’ll be back.' You say, slipping your shoes on.

'Don’t get kidnapped.' Lara calls.

'Noted.'

And then you’re out. The air outside is cool and fresh. It helps a little.

You walk without rushing, hands tucked into your sleeves, headphones in but not playing anything. Just there. A buffer.

Your thoughts drift. Not in sharp spirals like before. More like… slow currents. You pass familiar streets, familiar shops. People moving around you in their own little worlds.

It’s grounding.

By the time you reach the store, your head feels a little quieter. You keep it simple. Milk, bread, a few vegetables, something easy for later.

You try to keep it minimal. You fail slightly. You always do. By the time you’re at the checkout, the basket is heavier than intended.

You don’t question it.

On the way back, you take a slightly different route. No real reason other than just fancying a stroll. And that’s when you see it. A small setup outside a gallery space. Subtle signage, clean windows a few people lingering.

Someone is standing near the entrance, handing out flyers. You wouldn’t normally stop. But something catches your eye, so you slow.

They offer one out to you with a polite smile. 'Local exhibit. Opens this week.'

You hesitate for half a second, then take it. 'Thanks.' You murmur.

'No problem.'

You glance down to read it as you walk again. Minimalist design. Clean layout. A few images printed along the side.

Contemporary installations, mixed media, photography.

Your steps slow slightly. You don’t stop walking. But your attention lingers. You fold it carefully and tuck it into your bag. You’ll look at it properly later.

By the time you reach the dorm, your fingers are starting to ache again. Too many bags. Too many 'just a few things.'

You shift the weight, adjusting your grip as you reach the door. But before you can even get your keys out—It opens.

You blink in fright.

Sophia.

She’s standing there, like she was just about to leave. Her eyes drop immediately to your hands. Of course they do.

Her expression shifts. 'Why didn’t you ask for help?'

You huff softly. 'Hi to you too.'

'Hi.' She says automatically—then reaches forward and takes two of the heavier bags from you without waiting.

The relief is immediate. Your fingers sting slightly as the pressure disappears. You flex them absentmindedly. 'I didn’t think anyone would be home.'

'Mhm.' She hums, stepping back to let you in, unconvinced.

You walk past her, the warmth of the dorm hitting you again. 'It wasn’t that much.' You add, weaker this time.

She glances at you. 'You say that every time.'

'Because it’s true.'

'You bought six cartons of juice last week.'

'They were on offer.'

She exhales a quiet laugh. It’s soft. Easy. You feel it settle somewhere in your chest.

You both move into the kitchen. She sets the bags down and immediately starts unpacking like it’s second nature.

No asking. No hesitation. Just helping.

You hover for a second, then join her. 'You didn’t have to—'

'I know.' She says, pulling out the milk and placing it in the fridge.

You pause, because there it is again. That 'I know.' Not dismissive. Just certain.

You don’t argue.

The door opens not a moment later. Noise floods in.

'We’re back!' Lara’s voice rings out.

Daniela follows. 'And I’m starving.'

'You’re always starving.' Megan points out, stepping inside.

Yoonchae trails in behind them, slipping her shoes off neatly. Manon brings up the rear, calm as ever.

They all clock the scene instantly. You, Sophia, groceries halfway unpacked.

Lara grins. 'Domestic.'

'Shut up.' You mutter.

Daniela leans against the counter. 'Did you get snacks?'

'No.'

'Unbelievable.'

Megan eyes the bags. 'That does not look like a few things.'

You point at Sophia. 'She helped.'

Sophia doesn’t react, just keeps unpacking.

Manon hums quietly. 'Of course she did.'

You miss the look she gives Sophia. Sophia doesn’t.

Once everything is put away, the kitchen settles again. The others drift—living room, bedrooms, somewhere between.

You stay. Kettle in hand. You fill it without thinking, setting it on the base with a soft click as it hums to life.

You lean back against the counter, reaching into your bag for the flyer. You pull it out, unfolding it carefully. Your eyes scan over it properly this time.

Your lips press together slightly. You’re already picturing it. The space, the lighting, the quiet.

'Looks pretentious.' Lara says, appearing out of nowhere and peering over your shoulder.

You snort. 'You just don’t get it.'

'I don’t want to get it.'

Daniela leans in from the other side. 'Is it one of those places where there’s like... a chair in the middle of a room and it’s called existence?'

'Maybe.' You say, smiling faintly.

'Yeah, no,' she decides. 'Hard pass.'

Yoonchae steps closer, more curious. 'It looks pretty.' She says softly.

You nod. 'It does.'

Megan glances over from the living room. 'You thinking of going?'

You shrug slightly. 'Maybe. I just... haven’t had time.'

The kettle clicks louder as it heats.

You don’t notice Sophia stepping into the doorway. But she’s there, watching.

You flip the page. Pause on one of the images. Your expression softens slightly. Thoughtful. Interested. You hum under your breath.

Sophia notices everything. The way you linger. The way your fingers trace the edge of the paper absentmindedly. The way your whole energy shifts when it’s something you care about.

She doesn’t interrupt, doesn’t comment.

The kettle clicks off. You don’t move immediately. Still reading. Still somewhere else in your head.

'Your water.' Sophia says gently.

You blink, looking up. 'Oh—thanks.'

You turn back to the counter, grabbing your mug. As you pour, you feel it again. That awareness.

You glance over. She’s still watching you. Not intensely. Not in a way that makes you uncomfortable. Just present.

You look back down at the flyer as she suddenly says, 'We could go.'

You freeze slightly and turn. 'What?'

Sophia shifts her weight, like she’s choosing her words carefully. 'The exhibit.'

You stare at her. Not because of the suggestion. But because it’s her.

'You hate things like this.' You say before you can stop yourself.

'I don’t hate them,' she replies. 'I just don’t get them.'

You huff a small laugh. 'Exactly.'

She holds your gaze. 'Then you can explain it to me.'

Your chest tightens. The room feels quieter. Even with the others still around.

'You’d actually want to go?' You ask softly.

She shrugs—but there’s no hesitation. 'Yeah... with you.’

Something in your chest shifts again. Deeper this time. You glance down at the flyer. Then back at her.

A small smile tugs at your lips before you can stop it. 'Okay.' You say.

Simple. But it lands.

Behind you, Lara gasps dramatically. 'Wait—are we being excluded?'

'Yes,' Daniela says immediately. 'We’re not art people.'

'I could be an art person.' Lara argues.

'No you couldn’t.'

Yoonchae smiles softly. 'You should go.'

Megan watches you both, something knowing in her expression. Manon just leans against the wall, arms crossed, quietly observing. Taking it all in.

Sophia doesn’t look away from you right away. And this time, you don’t look away first either.

The kettle has long since stopped. Your tea is steeping. The flyer is still in your hand. And somewhere between groceries, warm kitchens, and quiet offers, something is shifting.

Slowly, carefully but its undeniable.

---

You don’t go to the exhibit right away. You plan it carefully and casually. Like it’s not a big deal. Like it doesn’t sit somewhere in the back of your mind all week.

It happens two nights later. Schedules open up—just slightly. A rare gap between your work lives.

You’re both in the kitchen again when it comes up. You’re leaning against the counter, scrolling through your calendar, frowning slightly.

'You’re free Thursday?' Sophia asks.

You glance up. 'Yeah… I think so.'

She nods once, like she’s already checked hers. 'Me too.'

A long moment passes. 'We could go then.'

Your chest does that thing again. It's small, sharp, but noticeable.

You try to play it off. 'Yeah. That works.'

'Cool.' She says.

Cool.

That’s it. Conversation moves on. But something settles. A plan. A thing that belongs to just the two of you.

And then comes the days in between.

It’s late one night. The living room is dim, just the lamp on in the corner casting that soft golden light across everything.

You’re curled up on the couch, legs tucked under you, blanket half slipping off.

You don’t notice the cold at first. You’re too focused on your phone scrolling. Not really reading anything. Just existing.

Until you shiver. Its barely anything. But from across the room, Sophia looks up. Of course she does. She doesn’t say anything. Just stands, walks over and drapes her hoodie over your shoulders.

You blink, startled. 'Soph—'

'You’re cold.' She says simply.

It’s the same tone as before. Like it’s obvious. Like of course she would do that.

You pull it around yourself slightly. It smells like her again. Faint. Familiar. Comforting in a way you don’t question.

'What about you?' You ask.

'I’m fine.'

You look at her for a second longer than necessary. Then nod. 'Thanks.'

She gives a small nod back. And this time, she sits down next to you. Not across the room. Not at a distance. Right next to you.

Your shoulders brush slightly when you shift. Neither of you move away.

Another night you're trying to make matcha.

'It never tastes right when I make it.' You mutter, staring into the cup like it personally offended you.

Megan laughs from behind you. 'Skill issue.'

You roll your eyes. 'Helpful.'

You’re about to give up on it entirely when— 'Move.'

You blink. 'What?'

Sophia’s already stepping into your space, reaching for the kettle.

'Move.' She repeats, softer this time.

You step aside, confused. She doesn’t explain. Just starts measuring, whisking and heating.

You watch her like you’ve never seen this before. 'Since when do you make matcha?' You ask.

'I don’t.' She says.

'Then why—'

She hands you the cup. 'Try it.'

You hesitate. Take a sip and pause. '…Okay.'

Megan leans in immediately. 'Is it good?'

You nod slowly. 'It’s really good.'

Sophia exhales quietly in relief. It's tiny, but there.

You look at her. 'You learned how to make this?'

She shrugs. 'You said you liked it.'

That’s it. That’s all she gives you. And it lands harder than it should.

The next day, you try to be smarter. You really do. Smaller list, less stuff. But your arms still end up full.

The door opens before you can unlock it. Again.

Sophia.

Her eyes drop to your hands. Again.

'You did it again.' She says.

You sigh. 'It’s not that bad—'

She takes the bags anyway. 'You always say that.'

You watch her this time. Really watch her. The ease of it. The way she doesn’t hesitate, doesn’t make you feel incapable. She just helps. Like it’s natural, like it’s normal to take some of the weight from you.

Your chest tightens slightly. You don’t look away.

Another time, you’re both sitting on the floor of the studio, backs against the mirrored wall.

Everyone else is scattered—stretching, talking, checking phones. You’re quieter. Tired. You don’t even realise you’ve leaned slightly sideways until something solid meets your shoulder.

Sophia.

She's not moving away. She's just letting you rest there. Like it’s nothing. Like it doesn’t mean anything.

Your breath catches slightly. You don’t move either.

'You okay?' She asks quietly.

You nod. 'Just tired.'

She hums. 'You’ve been pushing yourself a lot.'

You glance at her. 'You have too.'

She shrugs. 'I’m fine.'

You know that tone now. You don’t push. But you don’t move away either.

It creeps up on you. Not all at once. But piece by piece.

The way she always walks on the outside of the pavement, the way she hands you things first without thinking, the way she remembers everything you say, even when you don’t, the way she doesn’t interrupt you—just listens.

And the way she looks at you when you’re not looking.

Except now, you are looking.

You’re both in the kitchen again, its late, everyone else has gone to bed. It’s quiet.

You’re standing side by side, waiting for the kettle. Not talking. Just existing.

Your hands brush when you both reach for the same mug. You both pause. For a second it feels like something might happen.

Not big, not dramatic. But she pulls back first. Not abruptly, just enough ti give you space. Just like she's always giving you space.

Your chest aches a little at that. In a way you don’t fully understand yet.

You’re in your room sitting on your bed not doing anything in particular. Just pondering.

Your eyes drift to the plant on your windowsill. Still alive. Still watered. You didn’t forget this time. But you almost did.

And then a thought slips in. Soft and unavoidable.

She would’ve reminded me.

You stare at the leaves for a second. Then lean back slightly. Your heart is doing something strange. Not overwhelming. Not loud. Just persistent.

Because it’s not just one thing. It’s all of it. The coffee, the hoodie, the matcha, the groceries. The way she waits, the way she doesn’t push, the way she shows up over and over and over again.

Your fingers curl slightly into your sleeve. And for the first time, you don’t think of her confession as something sudden or surprising. It feels obvious. Like it’s been there, like she’s been there.

And you’re only just now really seeing her.

The night before you both go to the exhibition, you pass each other in the hallway. Both half-tired. Both heading to your rooms.

You pause, 'Tomorrow.' You say.

She nods, 'Tomorrow.'

A small smile, shared, quiet, but yours.

And when you go to sleep that night—It’s not the restaurant you think about. Its not the empty chair, not the unanswered texts.

It’s her. Standing in the kitchen, reheating your coffee like it mattered. Like you mattered.

---

The gallery is quieter than you expected. Not silent—but hushed in that intentional way. Soft footsteps, low voices with the faint echo of movement against polished floors.

The lighting is warm but focused—each piece given its own space to breathe.

You pause just inside the entrance. Sophia stands beside you, hands tucked loosely into the pockets of her jacket, eyes scanning the room.

'So,' she says lightly. 'This is your thing.'

You huff a small laugh. 'One of them.'

She nods once, like she’s taking that seriously.

You glance at her. 'You don’t have to pretend to like it, you know.'

'I’m not pretending.' She says.

You raise a brow. 'You literally said you don’t get it.'

'I don’t,' she agrees. 'But that doesn’t mean I won’t try.'

Your chest does that thing again. You look away first this time. 'Okay,' you murmur. 'Come on.'

You start slow as that's what feels right. Not rushing through, not trying to see everything at once.

You stop in front of the first piece—a large canvas, mostly monochrome. Harsh lines. Sharp contrast. Something fragmented about it.

Sophia stands beside you, looking at it for a long moment. 'It looks like someone got angry at a printer.'

You snort. It echoes a little louder than you expect in the quiet space. You quickly cover your mouth, glancing around. 'Oh my god—'

She’s already smiling, a little sheepish. 'What? That’s what it looks like.'

You shake your head, still smiling. 'Okay. No. That’s—no.'

'Am I wrong?'

'You’re not wrong,' you admit. 'You’re just… missing the point a little.'

She turns her head toward you. 'Then explain it.'

There’s no challenge in it, just curiosity. Real curiosity. You glance back at the piece.

'It’s about fragmentation,' you say, softer now. 'Like... identity. Or perception. The way things don’t always come together cleanly.'

She looks at the painting again. Actually looks. 'So it’s meant to feel messy?'

'Yeah,' you nod. 'Unsettled. Like something’s off but you can’t fully place why.'

She hums.

You watch her take that in. The way her brow furrows slightly. The way her gaze lingers longer than before.

She’s trying. Really trying. And it does something to you.

You move through the space slowly. Stopping at different pieces. Talking more.

There’s a photography series next. Black and white portraits. Intimate. Close-up. Each one slightly different but connected somehow.

You step closer to one of them. 'This one’s my favourite.' You say quietly.

Sophia shifts beside you. 'Why?'

You tilt your head slightly, studying the image. 'It’s honest,' you say. 'There’s no... performance to it. No trying to look like something. It just is.'

You don’t realise how soft your voice has gone. Or how much of yourself is in what you’re saying.

Sophia does. She’s not looking at the photo anymore. She’s looking at you. At the way your expression changes when you talk about something you care about.

The way your eyes focus. The way your voice settles. There’s something… grounding about it.

She forgets, for a second, where she is. The gallery fades. The noise fades. It’s just you talking, existing and being you. Her chest tightens. In a way that’s not uncomfortable. Just full.

You turn slightly and catch her staring.

You pause. 'What?' You ask, a little self-conscious now.

She blinks like she’s just been pulled back into the room. 'Nothing.' She says quickly. Too quickly.

You narrow your eyes slightly. 'You weren’t even looking at the photo.'

'I was.' She lies.

You glance at the piece, then back at her. 'You were looking at me.'

She hesitates. Then just slightly— 'Maybe.'

Your breath catches. That wasn’t denial. You don’t know what to do with that. So you look away and back at the photo.

But your focus is gone now. Because your heart is beating just a little faster than it should be.

You move on. Neither of you mentions it. But something has shifted again.

The next piece is strange. A sculpture this time. It's abstract, twisted metal with suspended elements that look like they shouldn’t stay in place—but do.

You both stand in front of it. There's a longer silence this time.

You glance at her. 'Okay. Your turn.'

She looks at you. 'My turn for what?'

'Interpretation.'

She immediately shakes her head. 'Absolutely not.'

You grin slightly. 'Come on. You said you’d try.'

'I didn’t say I’d be good at it.'

'You don’t have to be good. Just say what you think.'

She looks back at the sculpture and squints slightly. then tilts her head. You watch her. There’s something endearing about it. About the way she’s actually considering it. Taking it seriously—even if she doesn’t fully understand it.

'Okay.' She says slowly.

You perk up slightly. 'Okay.'

She gestures vaguely toward the piece. 'It’s… anxiety.'

You blink. 'Go on.'

'Like—' she searches for the words. 'Everything’s kind of... hanging. Not falling. But not stable either.'

You nod slowly.

'And it looks like it could collapse at any second,' she adds. 'But it doesn’t. It just stays like that.'

You stare at her. 'That’s... really good.' You say, a little surprised.

She looks at you, suspicious. 'Are you being serious?'

'Yeah,' you nod. 'That’s basically it.'

She huffs out a small laugh. 'I just made that up.'

'That’s the point,' you say. 'There’s no one right answer.'

She glances back at the sculpture. Then at you. 'Okay,' she says. 'I kind of get it now.'

Your chest warms. 'Yeah?'

'Yeah.'

And the way she says it—like she’s not just talking about the art—does not go unnoticed.

Later, you find yourself standing beside her again. But this time— you’re not looking at the art. You’re looking at her, at the way she tilts her head slightly when she’s focusing.

The way her hands stay tucked into her sleeves when she’s thinking. The way her expression softens when she starts to understand something.

You don’t realise how long you’ve been staring. Not until she turns and catches you.

'What?' She asks, a small smile tugging at her mouth.

You freeze. Your brain blanks for a second. 'Nothing.' You say quickly. Too quickly.

Her brow lifts. 'You were staring.'

You huff softly. 'You were staring earlier.'

'At you.' She corrects.

Oh.

Your heart stutters as you look away. 'That doesn’t help your case.' You mutter.

She laughs quietly. It’s soft and warm as it settles somewhere deep in your chest.

You move through the rest of the exhibit like that. Not rushed. Not distant. Just close in a way that feels new, but also familiar.

And somewhere between explaining meaning and watching each other when you think the other isn’t looking, a quiet, undeniable truth starts to settle in your chest.

This feeling isn't confusion anymore. It’s not just comfort. It’s not just familiarity. It’s something deeper. Its something growing day by day, moment by moment.

And the more you see her—really see her—the harder it becomes to pretend you don’t feel it too.

---

The gallery feels warmer when you leave. Or maybe it’s just you. You push the door open, stepping back out into the evening air. It’s cooler now, the sky dimming into that soft blue-grey that sits between day and night.

For a second, neither of you speak. You just walk side by side, closer than before.

'That was good.' Sophia says after a minute.

You glance at her. 'Yeah?'

She nods. 'Yeah. I get it now.'

You smile slightly. 'You do?'

'A little,' she admits. 'Enough.'

You huff a quiet laugh. There’s a comfortable pause. But charged in a way it wasn’t before.

Your arms brush, once, then twice. Neither of you pulls away. It happens again. And this time, neither of you pretends it didn’t.

Your fingers twitch slightly at your side. You feel it, that pull, that urge. It’s been building all day, all week.

Every small moment stacking on top of the last. The hoodie, the coffee, the way she listened, the way she looked at you.

Your hand brushes hers again. And this time— you don’t stop it. You turn your hand slightly and let your fingers catch hers. Just for a second, testing.

She stills. Barely. Then her fingers shift too to meet yours halfway. Not pulling away, not hesitating.

Your breath catches as you lace your fingers with hers. Fully this time. It feels warm and it feels right. Like its something you didn’t realise you’d been reaching for.

You don’t look at her immediately. You’re too aware of it. Of everything. But when you finally do, she’s already looking at you.

There’s something soft in her expression, something steady. She doesn’t say anything and neither do you. You just keep walking hand in hand.

It doesn’t last long before everything shifts.

You see them first. It makes your steps falter. Just slightly, but enough.

Sophia notices instantly. Of course she does. 'What's wrong?' She asks quietly.

You don’t answer right away. Your grip on her hand tightens without meaning to.

They’re standing a little ahead. Not alone. There’s a girl with them standing close. Too close.

Your stomach drops. Something cold slides down your spine as you stop walking.

Sophia follows your gaze. Then looks back at you.

Your face gives it away before you even say it. 'That’s them.' You murmur. Your voice feels distant. Like it’s coming from somewhere else.

Her expression changes immediately. Sharpens as she looks back at them. Then at you.

'Do you want to leave?' She asks.

You nod quickly. 'Yeah, please. Let’s just go.'

You start to turn, tugging her gently in the opposite direction. But it’s too late.

'Hey—'

You freeze.

God.

You close your eyes for half a second. Then turn back. They look… surprised. Caught.

Their eyes flick between you and—your hands. Still intertwined with Sophia’s. Something like panic flashes across their face.

Good.

You don’t feel good. You feel exposed.

'Hi.' They say, awkwardly.

'Hi.' You reply, flat.

You don’t let go of Sophia’s hand. If anything, you hold on tighter.

Their gaze shifts again. To her. 'Oh,' they say. 'You’re—uh…'

You don’t give them the chance to finish. 'We were just leaving.' You say quickly.

You try to move again. Try to pull away from this, from them. From the girl standing beside them who hasn’t said a word but is definitely listening.

But they speak again. Of course they do. 'Wait—'

You stop again. Your patience is thinner this time. 'What?' You ask.

They hesitate. 'I was gonna text you.' They say.

You stare at them. You actually laugh in disbelief. 'But you didn’t.'

'I know, I just—things got—'

'Busy?' You cut in.

Your voice is sharper now.

They wince slightly. 'Yeah, kind of—'

You gesture lightly toward the girl beside them. 'Yeah you seem really busy.'

Silence. That lands.

You feel Sophia beside you. Still, solid but present. Her thumb brushes lightly against yours.

'It wasn’t like that.' They say quickly.

You don’t even respond to that. You’re already stepping back. 'We’re leaving.' You say again, firmer this time.

You turn, ready to walk. Ready to be done with this. And then they say it. Carelessly and offhandedly.

'You look different, by the way. Better than your profile picture.'

You freeze again.

There’s a beat where your brain doesn’t fully process it. And then it lands. Crooked and so very wrong.

Sophia lets go of your hand and steps forward. 'What did you just say?'

Her voice is calm. Too calm.

You feel it immediately. That shift. That edge. 'Soph—' You start quietly.

But she doesn’t look at you. Her focus is locked.

They falter. 'I just meant—'

'No,' she cuts in. 'Say it again.'

They hesitate. But decide to keep their mouth shut. Because they know.

Sophia takes another step forward. Not aggressive, not loud but unmovable.

'You left her sitting alone for an hour.' She says.

Each word is measured and controlled.

'You ignored her messages.... and now you think you can stand here and make comments about how she looks?'

Silence.

You can feel your pulse in your throat.

'It wasn’t intentional—' They try.

Sophia lets out a short, humourless breath. 'That makes it worse.'

Her voice doesn’t rise. But it cuts deeper.

'Because it means you didn’t even care enough to think about it.'

You swallow hard.

The girl beside them shifts uncomfortably.

You barely notice. You’re too focused on Sophia. On the way she’s standing, on the way she’s speaking, on the way she’s defending you without hesitation. Without a doubt.

'She showed up,' Sophia continues. 'On time. Excited. Ready to give you a chance.'

Your chest tightens.

'And you couldn’t even send a message.'

They don’t respond. Because they can’t.

Sophia tilts her head slightly. 'And now you’re here with someone else?'

Her tone is quieter now. More cutting.

'That’s… interesting timing.'

Heat floods your chest. Your stomach twists. Not from embarrassment. From something else, something warm, something overwhelming, something that makes your thoughts blur for a second.

'Sophia—' You say, reaching for her arm.

She doesn’t move. She's still locked in, still not done.

'You don’t get to come back and act like this is casual,' she says. 'Like it didn’t matter... Because it did.'

Her voice softens slightly. But only for a second.

That’s when you step in properly. Your hand comes up as you gently but firmly grab her face—turning it toward you.

'Soph.' You say, softer now.

She stills immediately. Her eyes snap to yours. The tension is still there, sharp and alive. But she listens, she always listens.

'It’s not worth it.' You murmur.

Your thumb brushes lightly along her cheek without thinking. 'Let’s go.'

Her jaw tightens. You can see she’s not fully done, not fully calm. But she nods, once, for you.

You don’t look back at them. Not once. You take Sophia’s hand again. And this time, you don’t hesitate. You pull her away with you as you walk faster than before. Adrenaline still buzzing under your skin, your heart is racing, your thoughts a mess.

Because that—that just happened. And she did that for you. Again.

But this time it wasn’t just protective. It was something else, something deeper.

You don’t stop until you’re a good distance away. Until the street is quieter again, until it’s just you two.

Only then do you slow, still holding her hand and still not letting go.

She exhales sharply. Runs a hand through her hair with her free hand, 'Sorry,' she mutters. 'I shouldn’t have—'

'No.' You cut in immediately.

She looks at you. You shake your head slightly. 'Don’t apologise.'

Your voice is softer now. But firm. 'They deserved that.'

A small pause.

'And…' you hesitate slightly. 'Thank you.'

Something in her expression shifts. You’re still holding her hand. You both realise it at the same time. But neither of you lets go.

And as you start walking again—slower, closer now. That feeling in your chest— It’s not confusing anymore, its not subtle, its there and its growing. It's steady and impossible to ignore.

---

You don’t make it far. You try, you really do.

You walk—fast at first, then slower, then fast again—like your body doesn’t know what to do with the adrenaline still rushing through you.

Sophia keeps pace beside you. She doesn’t ask where you’re going, she just stays like she always does.

Your hand is still wrapped around hers. Tighter than before, like if you let go, something might unravel.

Your thoughts are loud. Too loud. Everything is overlapping— The exhibit, her watching you, the hand holding, the way she spoke to them. The way she said 'because it did.'

Your chest feels like it’s going to burst.

You stop suddenly. Sophia nearly bumps into you. 'Hey—' She starts.

You don’t let her finish. You turn too quickly as she freezes slightly at the shift.

Your breathing is uneven. Yours and hers. Both.

'What?' She asks, softer now. Concerned as she searches your face. Always searching.

You don’t answer because you don’t know how to say it. You don’t know how to explain that something has tipped, that something has changed, that you can’t go back to before this.

So instead you reach for her. Your hand slides from hers to her wrist. Not rough. Just urgent.

You take a step back, pulling her with you, off the main path and into the narrow space between buildings. Into an empty alley. Quiet and hidden.

'Wait—' she says, slightly breathless now. 'What are you—'

You stop, turn, and then you kiss her.

It’s not careful, its not tentative, its everything you didn’t say, everything you didn’t understand until now, everything that built up slowly and then all at once.

For half a second she doesn’t respond, caught off guard. Her hands hovering, unsure where to go. Then she pulls back, just slightly, not far, but enough.

Her breath is uneven as her eyes search yours. 'Are you sure?' She asks quietly.

Not rejecting, not pushing you away, just making sure.

Your chest rises and falls quickly. You don’t hesitate. 'Yeah,' you breathe. 'I’m sure.'

Your voice is soft but certain. More certain than you’ve been about anything in days.

And that’s all it takes. She kisses you back.

This time its different. Its still intense. But its grounded, more intentional.

Her hand comes up to your jaw, steadying you. Like she’s anchoring you there with her. And you completely melt into it.

Your hands find her—her jacket, the fabric bunching slightly under your fingers as you pull her closer. Like you need to feel that she’s real, that this is real.

The kiss deepens. Its not rushed, but full. Heavy with everything you’ve both been holding back. You can feel it in the way she responds. In the way she matches you, not overpowering, not overwhelming.

Just there with you, exactly where you are.

Your heart is racing. But it doesn’t feel chaotic anymore. It feels right.

When you finally pull back, its not far. Your foreheads rest together. Breathing shared in close proximity.

Neither of you speaks at first. You don’t need to. Not yet. Her thumb brushes lightly along your cheek. The same way yours did earlier. Gentler now. Softer.

'Okay.' She murmurs. It’s barely above a whisper, but it carries everything.

You let out a shaky breath. A small laugh slipping out without meaning to.

'Okay.' You echo.

She smiles, soft and relieved, like something she’s been holding onto has finally settled. And you realise that this wasn’t just impulse. It wasn’t just adrenaline. It wasn’t just the moment. It was building.

All of it. Every small thing, every quiet act, every look, every choice she made to show up for you.

And now, you chose her back.

Your fingers are still curled into her jacket. Her hand is still resting at your jaw. Neither of you moves away. Not yet.

Because for the first time, you’re not wondering what this is. You’re not second-guessing it. You’re not holding yourself back.

You’re just here, with her, exactly where you’re meant to be.

You're all over the stage, loose now, playful. No strict formation, just movement. Hair sticking to sweat damp skin, smiles wide, adrenaline high. Someone spins, someone else almost collides with another member and laughs it off mid-choreo.

Then something changes.

It's subtle enough that most people don't catch it at first. The fan filming zooms in on you because you've suddenly gone very still, half a beat off.

You reach back instinctively, too quick and too precise for it to be choreography. Your shoulders tense, your smile falters for a fraction of a second before you turn sharply, presenting your back to the crowd as one arm crosses over yourself.

You're clearly trying to keep dancing, trying to keep it normal. But there's a flash of panic in the way you glance sideways, eyes scanning for help.

Manon see's it immediately.

You can actually see the moment it registers. Her head snaps towards you, expression shifting from carefree to focused in less than a second.

She doesn't even hesitate.

She moves fast, purposeful, cutting across the stage instead of following the loose formation. As she passes Megan, she grabs her wrist without even looking at her.

The fan filming zooms in harder now, confused. 'What—?' Someone yells near the camera.

Manon positions Megan directly in front of you, her back to you as she faces the crowd, arms lifting instinctively to block the view like she already understands. Megan's still smiling at first, thinking it's a bit... until she turns to look at you.

Her smile drops.

Manon steps in close beside you, one hand steady at your shoulder, the other already working at the strap that's come undone. Her body shields yours completely, tall and solid, blocking every angle the crowd might have.

From the fans camera, all you can see is Megan's front and Manon's side profile, the two of them forming a wall around you.

The music keeps going. So do the other girls. So does the crowd, mostly unaware, still screaming, still filming.

Manon leans in, her mouth close to your ear. You can't hear what she says over the music, but you nod quickly, breathing shallow, hands clenched at your sides.

Her hands work quickly, precise and careful. You jolt faintly at the adjustment, but the smile that follows tells everyone it’s been fixed.

She tests it once, then twice, making sure its secure. Only then does she pull back slightly, eyes scanning you head to toe, checking that you're okay.

You look up at her, relief flooding your face so openly it almost hurts to see.

Manon gives you a small nod, only then does she step away.

Megan spins back into the song like nothing happened, professionalism snapping back into place. You turn with her, shoulders squaring, smile returning—this time real.

The beat drops as you re-join the others, dancing like your heart isn't still racing.

From the phone, the fan lets out a breathy laugh, half shocked, 'No way,' she says. 'Did you guys see that?'

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: manon clocked that INSTANTLY 15k likes 2.9k replies chatter02: there was no hesitation 98k likes 7k replies chatter03: 100% focus right there, the crowd did not exist in that moment 101.3k likes 53.7k replies chatter04: MANON CARES 37k likes 1.8k replies chatter05: she dont want her gf to flash everyone, makes sense 159.3k likes 68k replies ↳ chatter06: you're delulu 150k likes ↳ chatter05: ik 😭 248k likes

---

📹Clip Two📹

(VMA's BTS from interview) - 3.7M views

The first clip is clean.

Crisp audio and perfect lighting. The VMA's step and repeat stretching endlessly behind you in black and silver, logo's sharp and glossy.

The interviewer smiles wide, microphone angled just right. 'So, from being on tour and now you're all here tonight,' she asks, 'what's been the most surprising part of this year for you all?'

The camera frames you first. You step forward automatically, posture straight, smile practiced. You start strong measured and professional. 'I think for us, it's really about-about learning how to... um—'

You blink as the words tangle.

'... how to, like, grow individually while also... group—grouping?' You pause, eyes widening slightly as you realise what you just said.

There's a beat as you laugh nervously, cheeks flushing. 'Sorry—wow. I just combined about six thoughts into one sentence.'

The interviewer chuckles kindly. 'It happens.'

You inhale, shake it off and finish the thought smoothly, this time talking about growth, gratitude, the fans, the year. You land it.

But beside you— Manon is losing it.

The camera catches her just enough—lips pressed together, shoulders shaking as she tries not to laugh. Her eyes flick to you, warm and amused.

You glance at her and immediately groan. 'Don't.'

She bites her lip harder, fails, and lets out a soft giggle anyway.

The camera pans away then, shifting focus to Sophia as she smoothly continues the answer, voice confident and unfazed.

There's a cut to the next clip which starts shakier.

Vertical. Grainier. Clearly filmed from behind the barricade, the audio muddled with crowd noise and distant music.

The same moment, same question. But this time, you can see everything the official camera missed.

The fan’s phone zooms in too quickly, the frame jerking slightly as she tries to steady it. You cringe, laugh, apologise. The crowd behind the camera lets out soft, affectionate laughter.

Then the interviewers' camera pans away. The fans doesn't. The second it does, Manon leans in.

She bumps her shoulder into yours, laughing openly now, head tipping forward until her forehead nearly touches your shoulder. Her hand comes up instinctively, curling into the fabric at your side as she pulls you a little closer.

'You grouped.' She whispers, still giggling as the fans camera manages to pick up the words.

You hide your face briefly in your hand. 'I hate you.'

'No, you don't.' She says immediately, voice fond but still warm with laughter.

She slides her arm around you properly then. Not showy, not posed. Just a soft, grounding half hug while the interview continues without you.

You relax into it without thinking.

The fan filming gasps quietly. 'Oh my god,' she whispers. 'I caught that on video.'

Manon's laughter fades into something softer as she presses her cheek briefly against your shoulder, like she's sharing the moment with you instead of mocking it.

You tilt your head toward her, murmuring something back that the camera can't quite catch, but it makes her smile again, slower this time.

The clip ends mid scream.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: the official cam missed EVERYTHING 47k likes 1.5k replies chatter02: yup, she grouped 4.9k likes 954 replies chatter03: laughing then comforting, thats so real 968k likes 76.8k replies chatter04: manon laughing INTO HER SIDE is insane 165k likes 7.3k replies chatter05: okayyyyy, we get itttttt just date already 917.9k likes 101k replies

---

📹Clip Three📹

(Caught in 4k) - 1.1M views

The video isn't shaky this time. It's steady. Too steady.

The fan filming clearly doesn't realise what they've caught at first — they're just recording the basketball game atmosphere. The scoreboard flashes overhead. The arena lights sweep across the crowd during a timeout as music blasts through the speakers.

Then the camera pans casually across the lower bowl seating.

And stops.

'Wait—' The person filming says.

It zooms in. And there you are.

You're seated courtside, casual in hoodies, no stage makeup. No performance smiles. Just... off duty.

Manon is beside you, sitting close. Closer than friendly close.

Her arm is draped around your shoulders like it's been there all night. Not loose, not temporary.

Resting. Settled.

You're tucked slightly into her side, body angled toward her instead of the court.

The fan filming audibly gasps. 'Oh my god! That's Y/N and Manon from Katseye!'

The camera zooms further. You're both watching the game but you're not really watching it.

You lean up first, saying something into her ear over the noise of the arena. Your mouth brushes close — too close — because you have to be heard.

Manon tilts her head down to listen. Not pulling away. If anything, leaning in more.

Her hand tightens just slightly at your shoulder.

The crowd roars at a play. But neither of you react. You're still mid-conversation.

Now she leans down to your ear. Her lips move slowly, close enough that if the arena were quiet, it would look intimate instead of practical.

You laugh at whatever she says, soft and private. Not camera aware in the slightest.

You don't move away afterwards. You stay tucked there. Manon's arm doesn't shift. It looks... natural. Like this is where you sit.

The fan zooms even closer.

There's a moment. It happens fast as something on the court draws a reaction from the people around you. The section rises slightly in surprise. You both turn at the same time, not toward the court.

But towards each other. Your faces are already close, it looks like muscle memory.

Manon's head tilts, yours does too. For half a second, your noses almost brush.

The camera catches the exact frame where it looks like your lips might meet. But the angle is strange.

There's a man in the row in front of you who stands up at the worst possible time. The fan's phone shifts slightly.

When the view clears again, you're both facing forward like nothing happened.

Manon's arm is still around you. You're still tucked under it. No fluster, no laugh, no space created.

Just normal. Which makes it worse. Because if it had been accidental, awkward, platonic — there would've been a reaction.

Instead, you adjust your sleeve. She squeezes your shoulder once and you both continue watching the game.

The fan filming is scream yelling now, 'Did they just—?'

The camera shakes before the clip ends.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: am I insane or did they literally almost kiss 1M likes 563.7k replies chatter02: they turned at the same time that’s not random 176k likes 35.2k replies chatter03: I slowed it down to 0.25 and their noses TOUCH 54k likes 9k replies chatter04: pause at 00:07. her head tilts. HEAD. TILTS 76.1k likes 4.3k replies chatter05: the person recording is lucky to have witnessed this live 39k likes 2k replies

---

📹Clip Four📹

(The Pinata Incident) - 689.1k Views

The video once again starts shaky.

Someone in the crowd is laughing as they try to focus their phone, zooming in too far and then pulling back. The stage lights are bright whites and golds washing over everything as the cheers are deafening.

A brightly coloured pinata is being hauled out onstage. The crowd is losing it.

You can barely hear the girls over the screaming, but the context is obvious. The pinata sways slightly as a staff member steadies it, the giant stick already being passed around.

A fan behind the camera yells, 'TRES TURNOS!' And the people around them cheer.

The first few hits go by in a blur of laughter, dramatic swings as the pinata barely moves. Every miss is met with exaggerated reactions and mock despair.

The camera wobbles as it tracks movement.

Then its Sophia's turn. She steps forward confidently, gripping the oversized stick with both hands. The pinata hangs slightly off centre, and from this angle, its immediately clear — she's standing way too close to the rest of you.

You're off to the side with Megan and Manon, half watching, half laughing, bodies angled casually toward the crowd. None of you seem concerned. Yet.

Sophia winds up. And from the fan's perspective, the angle is terrifying.

The stick arcs back—and for a split second, it looks like she’s about to take out all three of you in one swing.

There’s an audible gasp from the crowd near the camera.

Your face changes instantly. Pure, unfiltered terror. Your eyes widen, mouth dropping open as your brain clearly screams oh no.

Megan’s expression mirrors yours—eyes huge, shoulders tensing as she instinctively ducks.

Manon just completely freezes. Her hands come up uselessly, half defensive, half confused, like her body hasn't decided whether to run or accept her fate.

Sophia swings. You react without thinking. Your hand shoots out, grabbing Manon by the arm and yanking her sharply toward you. With your other hand, you push Megan back by the shoulders, guiding her out of the swing's path just in case.

The crowd shrieks, half with fear, half with laughter.

Manon, instead of moving away — steps directly behind you.

The fan filming loses it. 'OH MY GOD—' They laugh breathlessly as the camera shakes even more now.

Manon presses herself against your back, hands gripping your stage outfit like you’re a shield. She peeks over your shoulder, eyes wide, watching Sophia like she’s handling live explosives.

You plant your feet instinctively, body angled protectively, one arm still out like you’re her personal barrier.

Megan stumbles back into frame, staring at you both. 'MANON?' She clearly mouths, incredulous.

But Manon doesn't move.

Sophia's swing misses everything. The stick just whistling through the air close enough that the threat feels real.

You turn your head slightly, saying something to Manon that the mic doesn't catch, but the tone is obvious from your expression — are you serious right now?

Manon responds by pressing closer. She laughs nervously, face half hidden behind your shoulder, clearly unashamed. One hands pats your side like she's congratulating herself on an excellent survival strategy.

Megan points at her, laughing now. 'Wow.'

Sophia finally looks over, realising what almost happened. Her eyes widen as she immediately lowers the stick, horrified.

'Oh—oh, sorry!' She says into her mic, audible this time.

You gesture wildly with your free hand like, you almost murdered us. Manon stays exactly where she is.

The fan zooms in dramatically. 'Manon said HUMAN SHIELD.' The person filming wheezes.

The video ends with Manon still behind you, chin nearly on your shoulder, smiling sheepishly at the audience like she’s proud of her choice.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: THE WAY THEY ALL FLINCHED 😭 78.7k likes 4k replies chatter02: that wasn’t choreographed that was SURVIVAL 143k likes 88k replies chatter03: the way y/n didnt even think twice and grabbed manon like it was a life or death situation 564k likes 96.3k replies chatter04: oh to be yanked by y/n like that... 433.1k likes 49.2k replies chatter05: you can hide behind me manon, ill even pay you to 32k likes 1.1k replies

---

📹Clip Five📹

(Her irrational fear is what?!) 789.3K Views

The livestream is already chaotic, but in a comfortable way.

You, Manon, and Daniela are sitting cross-legged on the floor of your apartment, backs against the couch. The lighting is soft, phone propped up as the comments are flying too fast to read.

Daniela is mid-story about almost slipping on stage when Manon interrupts to read a question.

'Okay, wait — this is interesting,' she says, squinting at the screen. 'What’s your most irrational fear?'

Daniela answers first. 'Mine is birds flying too close to my face,' she says immediately. 'Like I know they’re just existing but why are you existing near me?'

You laugh.

Manon nods thoughtfully. 'Mine is escalators eating my shoelaces.'

Daniela bursts out laughing. 'That is so specific.'

'So fair though.' You nod in agreement.

Then they both look at you.

You hesitate.

There’s a tiny pause before you answer.

'Okay, don’t judge me,' you say. 'But I have this thing where I’m scared someone’s hacked into my phone and is watching me through the camera.'

There’s a beat. A full second of silence.

Daniela blinks. Then she laughs. Not mean. Not cruel. Just immediate.

'No one wants to watch you that bad!' She says, still giggling.

You see the chat explode instantly, comments flying by quicker than you can read.

You try to laugh it off, but you shrink slightly where you’re sitting. Shoulders tucking in. You wave your hand dismissively.

'I know it’s irrational,' you say quickly. 'That’s the point.'

Daniela keeps smiling. 'Like imagine some hacker just watching you scroll at 2am.'

You roll your eyes, embarrassed now.

And then Manon speaks. 'Hey.'

It’s soft, but firm enough that Daniela stops laughing.

Manon shifts slightly closer to you without making a show of it. 'That’s not weird,' she says. 'A lot of people are scared of that.'

Daniela looks between you both, grin fading a little.

Manon keeps going. 'Privacy stuff is scary,' she shrugs. 'It’s not dumb.'

You glance at her. The camera catches it — that half-second look.

Manon doesn’t make it dramatic. She doesn’t overdo it. She just nudges your knee lightly with hers.

'And if anyone was watching,' she adds casually, 'they’d be bored.'

That makes you laugh. A real one this time.

You bump your shoulder into hers. 'Wow. Thanks.'

'I’m saying you’re not doing anything embarrassing.' She clarifies, deadpan.

Daniela laughs again, lighter now. 'Okay, that was kind of sweet.'

The chat is moving too fast to read, but fans later slow it down.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: the way she said ‘hey.’ immediately 87.4k likes 9k replies chatter02: why did that make me emotional though 21k likes 901 replies chatter03: Daniela laughed. Manon didn’t 189k likes 7.6k replies ↳ chatter04: THIS 93k likes chatter05: such a real fear to have tho 158.3k likes 14k replies chatter06: adding this to my compilation of 'times Manon had Y/N's back' 100.1k likes 18k replies

---

📹Clip Six📹

(Slimed) 1.1M Views

The video starts mid-scream. Not from the stage, but from the crowd.

The fan filming is already laughing because everyone knew it was coming. The hosts had been teasing it all night. The giant cannons are visible at the sides of the stage, neon green tanks glowing under orange lights.

'IT’S GONNA HAPPEN—' Someone yells near the phone.

You’re all almost finished singing the clean version of 'Gnarly,' breathless and smiling, hyped from the crowd. The stage is bright, Nickelodeon orange and lime, graphics bouncing across the screens behind you.

You look suspicious already. Manon glances toward the wings.

The cannons fire and it’s instant chaos.

A tidal wave of neon green slime pours from above and blasts from the sides at the same time. The crowd shrieks. The fan camera jerks violently upward, then back down, catching nothing but a wall of green.

For a full second, you all disappear.

When the stage comes back into view, everyone is drenched. Hair plastered down. Outfits soaked. Slime dripping off elbows and chins and lashes.

The crowd is losing their minds.

You try to laugh. But the fan filming zooms in because you’re not laughing like the others.

You’re blinking rapidly. Too rapidly. The slime got you straight in the face.

You cough once, then again — sharper. Your hands come up instinctively, trying to wipe your eyes, your nose, your mouth all at once. It’s thick. Sticky. It looks like you can’t get a proper breath in.

From the edge of the frame, Manon appears immediately.

Not dramatic. Not exaggerated.

Immediate.

She doesn’t play to the crowd. Doesn’t throw her arms up or spin for the cameras like the others are doing.

She goes straight to you. The fan camera zooms harder, shaky but focused now.

Manon grabs your wrist gently to stop your hands from smearing it worse across your face.

'Hold on.' You can faintly read her mouth say.

Her other hand comes up to your chin, steadying you. She wipes her hand on her outfit before using her fingers to quickly swipe across your mouth, clearing the thickest layer so you can breathe.

You cough again as she moves closer. Too close for performance choreography. Too close for stage spacing.

One hand tilts your face up slightly, thumb carefully swiping under your nose. Not glamorous. Not cute. Just practical.

She checks your eyes next. Brushes slime away from your lashes with careful fingers, slower now.

The music is still playing. The others are still dancing around you, laughing, hyping the crowd.

But right in the centre of the stage, there’s this small, focused bubble.

The fan filming whispers, breathless, 'Oh my god. Oh my god, she’s literally making sure she can breathe.'

You finally inhale properly. Your shoulders drop. Manon doesn’t step away yet. She leans closer, says something else — low, quick. You nod.

Only then does she shift. Her hand slides from your jaw to the small of your back. Firm. Guiding.

Not pushing. Guiding.

She turns her own body outward slightly, creating a barrier as she walks you toward the side of the stage. Between you and the crowd. Between you and the still-dripping slime cannons.

You’re half laughing now, embarrassed, wiping at your cheeks. She keeps her hand there. All the way until you’re safely off the main centre mark.

The fan camera catches the last part before cutting off. You glance up at her, still blinking green from your lashes.

Manon squeezes your shoulder once. Quick and grounding.

Then she finally turns back to the stage like nothing happened.

The clip goes viral within hours. Not because of the slime. There are hundreds of slime angles. But this one gets replayed the most.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: she didn’t even look at the crowd she went straight to her 😭 73.2k likes 812 replies chatter02: her hand stayed at her back the whole way off stage. the WHOLE way 22.2k likes 91 replies chatter03: everyone else was hyping the slime. Manon was doing a safety check 505.1k likes 10.3k replies chatter04: gf instincts kicked 512k likes 11k replies chatter05: you can literally see the moment she registers something’s wrong. her whole posture changes 901k likes 81.3k replies

---

📹Clip Seven📹

(?!?!) 432.8K Views

The video starts quietly. No screaming this time. No zoomed chaos.

Just the soft clink of ceramic and low indie music playing overhead.

A fan is filming discreetly from behind a plant near the window. 'Guys,' she whispers, 'I'm 99% sure that's them.'

The camera shifts slightly. You're standing at the counter of a small coffee shop. Hoodie on, hair down, no glam. Just off duty comfortable.

Manon is behind you. Not beside you. Behind you.

Her arms are fully wrapped around your waist. Not loose, not playful, not a casual side hug.

Fully wrapped.

Her fingers laced loosely over your stomach with her chin resting on your shoulder like it belongs there.

You don't look surprised by it. You lean back into her without thinking, weight setting naturally against her chest while you scan the menu board.

The barista asks something. You tilt your head toward Manon. She murmurs something into your ear, too quiet to hear.

You smile.

The fan filming audibly exhales as she zooms in a little more.

You reach into your purse for your phone.

Manon doesn't let go of you. She just shifts one arm enough to free her hand, already pulling her own phone from her pocket.

Before you can even lift your phone out the purse, she leans around you — still half wrapped around your waist — and taps her phone to the reader.

You pause mid-motion, looking back at her.

From the angle of the camera, it looks like you say, 'I was going to—'

She shrugs slightly, chin still on your shoulder. Her arms tighten again once the payment goes through.

Not performative. Not exaggerated.

Comfortable.

The kind of hold you forget is unusual.

You both wait for your drinks like that. Swaying slightly, your hands resting over hers.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: am I looking at a couple or am I losing my mind 186k likes 12.2k replies ↳ chatter02: I’ve tried to recreate that stance with my best friend. It felt illegal 31.7k likes chatter03: soft launch final boss 19.5k likes 2.1k replies chatter04: they forgot they were in public... again 165.1k likes 9k replies chatter05: manon swiping before y/n can even get her phone out??? 8.3k likes 837 replies chatter06: theyre my moms 201.4k likes 54k replies

---

📹Clip Eight📹

(photo dump) 2.1M Likes 25.8M Views

Photo 1: The first photo is Manon in a mirror selfie. Low lighting, flash reflecting off the glass. Her hair is slightly messy, oversized jacket slipping off one shoulder. The captionless confidence she's known for.

Photo 2: A blurry group shot of Manon and a few close friends sitting around a table late at night at a restaurant. Empty glasses, half eaten fries as the table is cluttered with plates while everyone is mid-laugh.

Photo 3: Manon and her close friend Sophie cheek to cheek, both pulling ridiculous faces at the camera. Sophie's hand is squishing Manon's cheek while Manon tries to shove her away, both clearly losing the battle against laughter.

Photo 4: You and Manon standing side by side outside somewhere dimly lit, probably the restaurant or a back alley somewhere. Nothing unusual, just a regular pose. Your arm loosely around her shoulders. Her hand around your waist with her hand in your back pocket. Both of you smiling at whoever took the picture.

Photo 5: This one looks almost accidental. Manon is lying fully on top of you across a couch. Her back pressed against your chest, one arm flopped over her head, legs tangled with yours like she just collapsed there and never moved again.

You're half reclined under her, head tilted slightly to the side. Both of you look completely asleep. The room behind you is dim, a couple of friends blurred in the background.

The last slide is a video. Five seconds, maybe six.

Manon and Sophie are standing in front of the camera just messing around—dancing badly, bumping shoulders and laughing too loudly. The camera shakes because whoever is filming is laughing hysterically.

Behind them, slightly out of focus, you're standing with a few friends. A bottle of water in one hand while the fingers on your other hand are hooked loosely through Manon's belt loop.

Not gripping. Not pulling. Just there, like its the most natural thing in the world. Like you've done it a thousand times before.

Manon spins while laughing at something Sophie says and steps backwards without looking. She bumps lightly into you.

Instead of moving away, she stays there for half a second, shoulders relaxed against you, like she already knew you'd be there.

You never look back to see who it is, you just keep talking as the video then loops on repeat.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: manon just casually lying on y/n like that ? 75k likes 2.3k replies chatter02: that’s the 'don’t wander off' hold and you cannot convince me otherwise 101.1k likes 7k replies chatter03: where do i apply to be part of this friend group 103k likes 7.9k replies chatter04: WHY IS EVERYONE FREAKING OUT, WHAT'D I MISS?!?! 55.3k likes 12.8k replies ↳ chatter05: last slide, bottom left 😭 95.3k likes ↳ chatter04: oh... OH MY GOD??? 91k likes chatter06: my emotional journey through this post:😃🤗🤨😱🫠💀 369.3k likes 87.1k replies

---

📹Clip Nine📹

(Rehearsal Livestream – Break Time Games) 6.6M Views

The livestream wasn’t supposed to turn into chaos. It was meant to be a simple break during rehearsal.

The camera is propped up against a water bottle at the edge of the practice room floor, angled wide enough to catch all of you sitting in a loose circle.

Dance mirrors line the walls. The bright overhead lights reflect off the polished floor. Towels, jackets, and water bottles are scattered everywhere.

Daniela had brought the Uno cards. Which, in hindsight, was the first mistake.

'You can’t stack a four on a four!' Yoonchae argues, leaning halfway across the circle.

'You absolutely can.' Lara insists, already laughing.

'You made that rule up!'

Sophia flips through the little instruction leaflet like she’s suddenly the official referee. 'Technically…'

Megan groans. 'Oh my god, just play.'

The game continues anyway.

The chat is racing by in the corner of the screen as fans watch the chaos unfold.

You’re doing surprisingly well. Until you’re not. Three turns later, your hand is full of cards again.

'Uh oh.' Lara sings.

You glare at her.

Manon, sitting cross-legged beside you, glances at your cards.

Her eyebrows lift slowly. Then she covers her mouth.

You immediately narrow your eyes. 'Don’t react like that.'

She shakes her head quickly, already smiling. 'I didn’t say anything.'

Two rounds later, Daniela slams her final card down. 'UNO!'

Sophia groans. Megan claps loudly.

Lara immediately points at you. 'Last place!'

You look down at your hand. Then up at the girls. Then back at the cards like they might suddenly rearrange themselves.

'You all set me up.' You mutter.

'No we didn’t!' Daniela protests through laughter.

'You absolutely did.'

Manon leans back on her hands, watching you with clear amusement.

'Punishment time.'

From somewhere behind the practice speakers, Megan drags out a crinkling plastic bag.

Your stomach drops instantly. 'No.'

'Oh, yes.' She says cheerfully.

You peer inside the bag. Then immediately close it again.

'No.'

'It’s the rule.' Lara reminds you.

Daniela is already clapping excitedly. 'Put it on! Put it on!'

The chat is flying now. You sigh like someone about to accept their fate.

'Oh my god, this is gonna get clipped.'

There’s a jump cut in the clip. When it resumes, the camera has been moved slightly closer. You stand in the middle of the rehearsal room. Inside an inflatable dinosaur costume.

Bright green. Round in the middle. Ridiculously oversized head attached above yours.

A small fan hums quietly as the suit inflates fully. The girls lose it instantly. Daniela drops sideways onto the floor laughing.

Yoonchae has both hands over her mouth. Sophia actually has to step away from the camera because she’s shaking so hard.

'You look amazing.' Lara manages.

You try to cross your arms. The tiny dinosaur arms do not cooperate.

'This is humiliating.'

'You agreed to the punishment.' Megan reminds you.

You try to walk. The costume waddles more than it walks. Every step makes the inflatable body bounce slightly.

Manon has gone very quiet again. Which is suspicious.

You turn toward her slowly. She’s staring at you. Not laughing. Just staring.

'You’re not allowed to enjoy this.' You warn.

She stands up. Walks over. Pokes the inflatable stomach. The suit squeaks softly under her finger. She does it again.

You close your eyes briefly. 'Manon.'

'It’s so squishy.' She says, clearly delighted.

She presses both hands against the round middle this time. The costume compresses slightly before puffing back out again. The room erupts with laughter again.

'You’re going to pop it!' Megan wheezes.

Manon ignores her. She squeezes the inflatable arm next. Then the tail.

You try to step backwards. The dinosaur feet make that… difficult.

'You’re harassing me.' You accuse.

'I’m appreciating the costume.'

She pokes the stomach again. You attempt to sit down in defeat. Which is a mistake.

Because the moment you sit, the oversized dinosaur head tilts forward completely.

Your vision disappears.

'I can’t see.' You announce immediately.

The girls start screaming.

'You look like a tipped-over balloon!' Daniela cries.

You try to lift the dinosaur head. The inflatable body wobbles instead.

Manon crouches in front of you. You can’t see her. But the chat definitely can.

Because she gently pushes the dinosaur head back up so your face is visible again through the little plastic window.

'There.' She says softly.

Then, because apparently she cannot help herself, she presses both hands against the inflatable belly again.

Your head falls back slightly as the costume squeaks. 'Stop touching it!'

'I like it.'

'You’ve touched it eight times!'

'Nine.' She corrects.

The girls are losing their minds now.

Megan grabs Sophia’s arm. 'Look at her!'

Manon doesn’t move her hands though. Instead she lightly leans forward and rests her chin against the round inflatable stomach like it’s a cushion.

You freeze. 'Manon.'

'Hm?'

'You’re making this worse.'

She smiles slowly. 'I think it’s making it better.'

The chat explodes. The clip cuts there.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: WHY IS MANON PETTING Y/N LIKE A CAT 682k likes 22k replies chatter02: that is NOT normal bandmate behaviour 😭 214k likes 6.1k replies chatter03: they forgot they were live again 1.4M likes 103k replies chatter04: manon being awful touchy 101.3k likes 43k replies chatter05: awwwww y/n makes a cute dino 1M likes 654k replies

---

📹Clip Ten, Part One📹

(someone's in trouble) - 13.9M Views

The video starts with screaming.

Not angry screaming. Tour screaming.

Fans are packed tight against barricades outside the minibus, phones raised high. The bus windows are tinted, but not fully. With the right angle and the light on inside, you can see in quite clearly.

Someone zooms in. 'There—there they are!'

All of you are inside, still in makeup but sporting comfy wear. The bus hasn't moved yet as security are still trying to clear a path.

Through the glass, Manon is visible first.

And she does not look happy.

Her posture is rigid. Jaw tight, brows drawn down as her body is leaning forward as she stands, talking sharply toward Megan across the aisle.

The person filming sucks in a breath. 'Why does she look mad?'

The camera zooms closer.

Manon gestures toward the window. Once. Twice. Her hand cuts through the air in frustrated motions. Megan responds, looking confused, trying to see what she's pointing at.

You're beside Manon. Close. Your hand on her forearm. Not restraining. Grounding.

From the outside of the bus, though? It looks like tension.

Manon says something again — fast and intense. Her mouth moves in clipped syllables as she shakes her head hard.

You lean closer to her, saying something low near her ear.

She exhales sharply.

Fans outside start speculating in real time.

'Are they fighting?' 'Why is she yelling?' 'Is something wrong?'

The clip ends with Manon pressing her palm briefly to her forehead, clearly upset, before security finally clears the path and the bus pulls away.

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: why does manon look actually mad??? 202.1k likes 8.9k replies chatter02: am I the only one who thinks she was yelling at Megan? 489.3k likes 55.6k replies ↳ chatter03: please don’t start narratives from a 10 second clip. 559.4k likes chatter04: she looked stressed. like genuinely stressed 93.4k likes 7.1k replies chatter05: must be bad if y/n's tryna calm her down 21k likes 943 replies chatter06: someone tag that lipreader girl, we need her desperately 1.1M likes 874k replies

📹Clip Ten, Part Two📹

(rip my notifs, y'all asked for this) 21.8M Views

The screen is split in half.

On the left: the original tour bus clip. Grainy, tinted glass, fans screaming outside.

On the right: a girl in soft lighting, hair tied back with a neutral expression holding a small microphone.

Further detail in the caption reads: 'Okay, y'all really wanted to know what was being said in this clip. I think we misunderstood this.' 3.6M likes 241.8k replies

The video starts playing. She pauses immediately. 'First of all,' she says gently, 'I've done live event lip reading for a few years. I'm not perfect by any means, but I'm pretty confident here.'

She zooms in on Manon pointing toward the window. Replays it at 0.5 speed.

On screen text appears as she mouths it along with her: 'There's a guy shoving them.'

She pauses again. 'Notice she's not looking at Megan when she says this. She's looking outside.'

Replay.

Manon's jaw is tight. Gesture sharp.

Subtitle overlay: 'He was pushing people, including kids!'

The lip reader nods slightly. 'She's upset. But it's outward frustration. Not internal.'

The clip continues. Manon shakes her head.

Subtitle: 'Don't sign for him.'

The lip reader explains, 'She says 'don't sign for him' and then something like 'he's not even a fan.'

Replay.

Manon's mouth clearly forms: 'He's going to resell it.'

The lip reader slows it again, this time focusing on you.

'Y/N is talking here.' She says, circling your face lightly on screen.

She rewinds.

You lean in toward Manon, your hand on her forearm.

Subtitle appears: 'Security saw him.'

Replay.

You again: 'They caught him.'

The lip reader looks back at the camera. 'Y/N is calming her down.'

The original clip continues as Manon presses her palm to her forehead.

Lip reader pauses. 'She says—'

Replay.

'I don't want them getting hurt.'

There's a beat of silence. Even through the split screen, it hits.

The lip reader exhales softly. 'She's not mad at the girls. She's mad at the situation.'

She rewinds one last time to the moment your hand stays on her arm. 'She doesn't pull away from this. She leans into it.'

Replay shows Manon's shoulders relaxing slightly after you speak.

Subtitle; Y/N: 'They're okay.' Manon: 'Okay.'

The duet ends with the lip reader saying, 'Context matters. That's all.'

Top comments under the video:

chatter01: she was mad FOR the fans 98.6k likes 12k replies chatter02: can we talk about y/n calming her down though… 143.1k likes 45k replies ↳ chatter03: get your parasocial ass outta here 150k likes ↳ chatter02: let me live my delulu life in peace 167k likes ↳ chatter03: be so fr you don’t even know them 54k likes ↳ chatter02: let me have this bro 101k likes chatter04: this is why outside perspective can be so misleading 546k likes 132k replies chatter05: everyone owes manon an apology idc 999.8k likes 87k replies chatter06: CONTEXT MATTERS! 1M likes 45k replies

Your mom stopped stirring her tea. Your dad leaned back in his chair like the words had physically pushed him as your brothers stared in quiet shock.

'You’re young,' your mother said carefully. 'Why move when there are opportunities here.'

'There are opportunities everywhere.' You replied.

Your dad sighed. 'You have family here. Support here. Why go somewhere you know no one?'

You wanted to say I don’t know no one. You wanted to say Sophia. But you didn’t. Because at the time, Sophia wasn’t part of the plan.

She was already in LA, balancing idol schedules with the girls of Katseye, rehearsals, press, flights, choreography, and the kind of exhaustion that only came from chasing something that big. You hadn’t even told her about applying.

You wanted this to be yours. Not your parents’. Not your sister’s. Not something arranged.

Yours.

'It’s just a job,' your mother tried again. 'You could build a life here. You don’t need to leave.'

That was the thing. You did. Not because you hated home. Not because you were running from anything.

But because you’d always been someone’s little sister. Someone’s daughter. Someone who would just 'figure it out eventually.'

This job — junior graphic designer at a small but growing marketing company in LA — wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t some huge agency. But it was real. It was competitive. It was something you earned.

And they chose you. That mattered.

'I want to try,' you said quietly. 'Just try.'

Your dad didn’t argue after that. But you remember the look he gave your mom. The look that said she’s too young. You didn’t know they called Sophia.

You didn’t know they had told her:

'She’s stubborn.' 'She won’t listen.' 'Can you keep an eye on her?' 'She doesn’t understand how hard it will be.'

You didn’t know any of it. All you knew was that two days after that dinner, your phone rang.

'Sophia?'

'I heard you’re moving to LA.' She said.

You blinked. 'Who told you?'