Mina stands beside Seulgi in the backstage and squeezes her hand.

“Momo’s worried that something might happen to you again. But looking at you right now, I’m just glad you're back to your normal self.”

Seulgi whispers a “thank you” and squeezes back, grateful for the small smile Mina gives her. They emerge from the backstage and the light almost blinds her for a second. Her heart is thumping so hard, almost sounding louder than the “Go Kang Seulgiiii!” she hears from the front.
 

---

During her 16-beats pause while Momo’s doing her solo, she sees the blinding smile of one Irene Bae. She didn’t think it was possible, but her smile becomes brighter after her own solo.

Her memory flashbacks to one year and eleven months ago when she sees her smile for the first time. But at that time, she didn't sit in front, didn’t cheer for her, and didn’t smile as wide.

She waved a ‘hi’ when Krystal and Amber introduced them to each other. They started hanging out more often, as “KryBer’s Best Friends” (as Krystal and Amber called them).

---

It only took her a month to realize she has a crush on Irene. It doesn’t help that they’ve become closer, since they didn’t want to third wheel anymore. Instead of joining Krystal and Amber’s dates, they went on their own.

It was Irene’s idea. They tried different restaurants every week. They watched movies together. They went on lazy walks and library sessions together. They were inseparable.

---

“Seulgi!”

She sees Amber approach her. She puts down her pen and closes her notebook on her lap. She lifts her bag to let Amber sit on the bench beside her.

“Hi Amber! It’s been a long time. How are you?”

“I’m doing well. Hey, Krystal and I miss hanging out with you. We want to try those pork ribs too!”

She chuckles and recalls how Irene waited for her after class and almost shoves her in the car just so they could eat ribs for early dinner.

She laughs. “Don’t worry, we can all go there next time. It’s our favorite.”

Amber laughs too, before turning serious, “You seem to take care of Irene really well.”

She doesn't know what to respond and surprise is evident on her face. But Amber playfully adds, “It seems she found a new best friend and replaced me.”

She chuckles and they talk a little bit more until Amber has to leave to pick up Krystal and Seulgi has to meet with Irene.

---

She confesses three months later. She knows Irene hates them. She hates it whe