Morning. 8:45 AM. AUREYA Entertainment.
Soorin arrived early. Deliberately early.
She'd dressed carefully that morning. Minimal makeup. Hair pulled back simply. Dark circles under her eyes that she hadn't bothered covering up. Wearing comfortable clothes that didn't quite match—like she'd grabbed whatever was closest.
The image of someone barely holding it together.
Manager Park was already in his office when she arrived. Coffee in hand. Looking tired himself.
"You look rough," he said.
"Didn't sleep much."
"I can tell." He gestured to the chair. "Sit. They'll be here soon."
She sat. Let her hands fidget with her phone. Nervous energy that wasn't entirely fake.
Haejin arrived five minutes later. He'd clearly rushed—hair still slightly damp from a shower, jacket thrown on quickly.
He took the seat next to her. Their hands found each other automatically under the table.
"You okay?" he murmured.
"Getting there."
