Around noon, Jiwon left her office to grab lunch.
The hallway was busy. Staff moving between meetings. Coordinators rushing with clipboards.
She walked with purpose. Nodding politely to everyone she passed.
That's when she saw him.
Minjae.
Coming out of the practice room. Sweaty from rehearsal. Towel around his neck.
He spotted her. Smiled.
Bowed politely.
"Jiwon-ssi."
She returned the bow. Sweetness dripping from her voice.
"Minjae-ssi. Working hard?"
"Always."
He wiped his face with the towel.
"How are you holding up? After everything?"
"I'm okay. Just trying to keep things running smoothly."
"You're doing great. Everyone says so."
She smiled.
"That's kind of you."
He nodded. Started to walk past.
But Jiwon's mind was already calculating.
'He's getting close to Soorin. Too close.'
She'd seen them on the rooftop. Holding hands. Comforting each other.
Another variable to manage.
Another thread to cut.
She made a mental note.
Then continued to the cafeteria.
