The new partner selection mission had everyone on edge.
“Wait, we really have to draw lots? Seriously?” Haneul eyed the manager’s little basket suspiciously. Taeyo stood with arms crossed, sneaking glances at Haneul.
Soojin leaned over and whispered, just loud enough for drama.
“So, Haneul, who’s your destiny? Taeyo? Wooseok? Or maybe Jimin?”
With a sigh, Haneul pulled a slip. She unfolded it and her jaw dropped.
“I… got Jimin oppa.”
Taeyo’s face froze for half a second before twisting into a mischievous grin.
“Congrats. Now you two can light up the stage, huh?” he called out, a bit too loud.
Haneul clutched her chest, not sure if it was relief or disappointment. Soojin nudged Taeyo, smirking.
“Why are you yelling, Taeyo? Feeling something, maybe?”
“Nope. Just have a sore throat, that’s all,” Taeyo shot back, coughing theatrically. Haneul couldn’t help but giggle.
As everyone found out their new partners, Wooseok kept casting longing puppy eyes at Haneul.
Jimin strolled over, extending his hand with extra flair.
“Alright, Haneul, let’s show them real chemistry this time. Think Taeyo will get jealous?”
Before Haneul could answer, Taeyo butted in.
“Jealous? Please. As if.”
Jimin only grinned, pulling Haneul into a showy partner pose right in front of Taeyo. Haneul’s cheeks were starting to burn.
Soojin chimed in again.
“I’m watching your face during practice, Taeyo. Better put on your poker face.”
Taeyo ruffled his hair, eyes darting away as if the ceiling was suddenly interesting.
Just then, Haneul’s phone buzzed. It was a message from Taeyo.
“Can we talk for a minute after this?”
She hesitated, fingers hovering over the screen, a shy smile betraying her feelings.
Partners started pairing off for their first practice session. Jimin grabbed Haneul’s hand and marched her out, grinning all the way.
Left alone, Taeyo gazed after them, mumbling under his breath.
“I’m totally not jealous… So why does it bug me this much?”
What awkward misunderstandings and butterflies would the next rehearsal bring? No one could predict, but one thing was clear: things were about to get a lot more interesting.