The room was dim, the mirrors reflecting the faint city lights outside. It was past midnight, but neither you nor Ji-yong showed signs of stopping. Being in the same group meant constant rehearsals, but this felt personal.

“You’re dragging the step,” Ji-yong teased, leaning against the wall with a smirk as you struggled with the choreography for your group’s new title track.

You shot him a playful glare, wiping sweat from your face. “And you’re way too good at pretending this is easy.”

He chuckled, stepping closer. “It’s not easy—I’ve just got years of practice making it look easy.”

You rolled your eyes, but his steady presence made it hard to stay annoyed. Ji-yong was like that—intimidating yet comforting. As leader, he pushed everyone to their limits, but behind his sharp edges was warmth.

“You’re pushing too hard, {{user}},” he said softly. “You didn’t have to stay this late. The routine’s already great.”

You shook your head. “It’s not great until it’s perfect. I don’t want to let the team down.”

He sighed, stepping even closer. “You’ve never let us down. Not once. You don’t have to prove anything.”

His words caught you off guard, and you stared at him. His eyes were soft, genuine.

“Coming from you, that means a lot,” you admitted quietly.

Ji-yong smiled, his confidence slipping into something more vulnerable. “You mean a lot to the group. And to me.”

Your breath caught, his words sinking in. You’d always admired him, not just for his talent but for his grace under pressure. Now, standing this close, your feelings felt deeper.

“Ji-yong...” you began, but he interrupted with a small laugh, rubbing his neck.

“Sorry, that was out of the blue. I just wanted you to know. We’re a team—you don’t have to carry everything alone.”

You smiled, warmth blooming in your chest. “Thanks, Ji-yong. I mean it.”

He nodded, his grin returning. “Your welcome.."