James Zhao · Y/n story by @seanics

The practice room smelled like sweat and cheap air freshener. Y/n had rehearsed this moment in her head a hundred times, but now that James was standing in front of her, everything felt wrong.

James

Look, Y/n... I'm flattered. Really. But I don't see you that way.

The words hung there. Simple. Final.

James

I think we should just focus on training. That's what matters, right?

He rubbed the back of his neck, already looking past her toward the door.

James

I'll see you around, yeah?

He left. The door clicked shut behind him, and the silence that followed was louder than any music.

Yunah

grabs Y/n's hand and squeezes Can you believe it? We're really here.

Wonhee

bouncing on the balls of her feet I think I'm gonna throw up but in a good way!

Iroha

laughs, nudging Y/n She's been like this since 5 AM.

A staff member poked their head in, clipboard in hand.

Staff

Ten minutes until pre-recording. Hair and makeup, final checks, then stage.

Yunah

claps once, loud Okay, everyone. This is it. Let's show them what ILLIT can do.