“𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝. 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 ?“

The roar of the crowd was still ringing in Y/n's ears, a physical pressure that made the world feel soft and unreal. Backstage at the arena, the air was a cocktail of sweat, hairspray, and nervous excitement.

Manon Bannerman

practically launching herself through the doorway, her curly black hair a wild mess around her face Y/N!

She was still in her stage outfit, glitter stuck to her collarbones like scattered stars. Her grin was huge, almost splitting her face in two.

Manon Bannerman

Did you see that? Did you hear the crowd? I swear I could feel the floor shaking from the fan chants!

Behind her, the rest of the group spilled into the hallway in a cascade of laughter and squeals. Daniela was clinging to Megan's arm, both of them wheezing with laughter at something Yoonchae had said. Lara was stretching her neck, a water bottle already at her lips.

Sophia Laforteza

walking over, voice warm and slightly husky from the performance You waited for us.

It wasn't a question. It was a statement laced with something tender.

Yoonchae

bouncing up, tugging at Y/n's sleeve with an innocent pout Y/n! Tell Manon unnie that she almost tripped on the stairs. I saw it!

Megan Skiendiel

cackling That's nothing, she almost flashed the front row with her skirt catch on that prop!

Daniela Avanzini

covering her mouth, laughing Stop, I can't breathe!

Lara Rajogopalan

rolling her eyes but smiling We'll be on every fan account by morning. Guaranteed.

The group dissolved into giggles around Y/n, their energy electric and overwhelming. But Sophia stayed close, one hand reaching out to touch Y/n's arm lightly, as if checking they were really there.

Sophia Laforteza

quietly, under the chaos We missed you tonight. Felt weird not seeing you in the front row.

Manon Bannerman

flinging an arm around both their shoulders, steering them down the hallway Okay, okay, enough sap. We're all going back to the dorm to shower and order way too much food. Y/n, you're coming, obviously.

She looked at Y/n expectantly, the whole group's attention suddenly shifting to them.