*SEOUL SOUTH KOREA*

Third Person's POV

Jessica entered Tyler's office, followed by Yoona. She couldn't help but notice that Jessica seemed overly worked up about the situation. She wondered why Jessica was making such a big deal out of what appeared to be a fake news story.

Tyler's voice carried a cold tone as he addressed Jessica, disappointment evident on his face. Yoona observed their interaction, not particularly impressed by Tyler's attitude.

"Jess," Tyler spoke, his voice softening as he walked over to Jessica and enveloped her in a hug. The embrace continued for nearly two minutes, leaving Yoona feeling increasingly uncomfortable. She shifted her posture, coughed awkwardly, and drew the attention of the two people in the room who seemed momentarily embarrassed by their display of affection.

Once the hug ended, Yoona cleared and spoke up, feeling out of place in the situation. "You said you wanted to talk to me as well. Is this about that news?" She looked around the room, observing the aesthetics and wondering if Tyler's good taste in design played a role in her and Jessica's initial connection.

Tyler seemed slightly taken aback by Yoona's serious expression, causing him to gulp nervously. Jessica also picked up on the tension in the room, watching Yoona closely.

"Why, though?" Yoona's tone was direct, almost accusing. "Why do I have to be here talking to you when you could simply publish a statement denying that news immediately?" Her words weren't so much a question as they were a statement, expressing her frustration at the situation.

The way Yoona addressed Tyler demonstrated her skepticism and her demand for valid reasons. Tyler seemed caught off guard by Yoona's straightforwardness, his response a bit hesitant. He walked to his desk and avoided eye contact with her as he admitted to considering the option she had suggested.

"Well... Yeah. That's what I'll do anyway," Tyler finally replied, his confidence waning in the face of Yoona's direct questioning.

Yoona's small smile seemed to convey a sense of both satisfaction and slight amusement at Tyler's response. She could see through his lack of thoughtfulness and realized that his actions often lacked proper consideration.

Satisfied with Tyler's response, Yoona shifted her attention to Jessica, who had been observing the interaction. Jessica was beginning to notice a pattern in Yoona's demeanor around Tyler. She wondered if Yoona harbored some sort of resentment toward him.

Deciding to address Jessica, Yoona asked about their schedule for the day, pulling Jessica's attention away from her thoughts. Jessica snapped back to reality, feeling a bit flustered under Yoona's gaze. She quickly reassured Yoona that she could head to the car first and that she would join her shortly.

As Yoona walked away, she couldn't help but reflect on the situation. She understood Jessica's concerns about her reputation and the pressure of being a public figure, yet she found it frustrating that Jessica often let panic cloud her judgment.

Just as Yoona was lost in her thoughts, her phone vibrated with a message from Jennie. Curious, she pulled out her phone and read the message.

From tiny little : (5:30 pm)
U R A CHEATER!!!

Yoona furrowed her brows, initially confused by Jennie's message. But soon enough, she realized the playful context behind it, causing her to laugh softly to herself. She found Jennie's approach amusing and decided against replying, not wanting to escalate any potential playful banter.

As she continued walking and pondering Jennie's message, her phone began ringing, revealing that it was her mother calling. Pressing the phone to her ear, she greeted her mother with a slightly exasperated tone.

"How are you doing? It's been like years ago when I heard your voice," her mother teased.

Yoona rolled her eyes playfully, not missing a beat. "What is it?"

Her mother responded with a sweet, "I miss you, my daughter."

Yoona playfully retorted, "Mom, it's just like a week. Don't be paranoid."

Her mother continued the playful banter, pretending to be shocked by her response. "And what then? Is that a reason not to miss you?"

With a sigh and a smile, Yoona conceded, "Okay, I miss you."

But her mother wasn't done yet, pressing for more sincerity. "I want it sincere, Yoong. Be sincere for the first time."

Yoona could practically imagine her mother rolling her eyes on the other end of the line. Deciding to play along, she let out a cute, exaggerated voice, saying, "I miss you, mom~"

This playful interaction with her mother brought a smile to Yoona's face, reminding her of the close bond they shared, even across distances.

"I can't believe you didn't spill the beans about your new romance. I'm genuinely hurt right now. Is she even prettier than me?"

Geez, news travels faster than lightning. If my mom knows, I'm betting my dad's already in on it too, ready to tease me forever.

"Nobody holds a candle to your beauty. You're the most stunning person I've ever met."

"If we weren't related and I was your age, I'd totally try my luck."

Yoona chuckled, idly tapping her keys. "Thanks for the offer, but you're just not my type."

"How dare you underestimate my beauty?"

"We all know you and Dad are the perfect pair."

"Nice save, Yoong. So, where do I get to meet this lucky girl?"

"Mom, cut it out. I'm not in the market for that stuff. And by the way, I'm not against dating girls – just not my thing right now."

"Why's that?"

"Girls are complicated. I don't want unnecessary drama. I've had my fill of that lately."

"Yoong, you used to plan to marry those cute siblings from the neighborhood when you were a kid."

Ugh, Mom's digging up the past again. Can't she move on?

"Enough, Mom. Some things never change, okay? I'm married to my job."

"Just remember my rules, alright? Or else you're in trouble."

"I'm good, Mom. Still the queen bee. Love you."

Wait a sec... "You're unbelievable." She sent a spy after me, seriously?

"I'm just looking out for you from afar. Watch your step, troublemaker."

"Bye."

Yoona hung up quickly and stashed her phone away.

"T and I are heading to the bowling alley, and he decided not to bring his car."

Oh great, another awkward situation. Can't they just go without me?

She forced a smile and opened the car door, gesturing for Jessica to get in first. Tyler gave her a questioning look, "You're not acting like a lady." She shrugged nonchalantly, got into the car, and chuckled at Tyler's confused expression.

As they drove, Yoona's phone kept ringing, much to the annoyance of both Jessica and Tyler.

"Aren't you going to answer your phone?" Jessica asked, clearly exasperated.

Nope, I'm going to let him get tired of calling me. He's just going to tease me, anyway.

"It might be something important. You should answer it," Tyler chimed in, sensing that he shouldn't mess with Yoona.

Can't he just wait until we reach our destination? Why can't he be patient?

She plugged in her earpiece and answered the call on her phone.

"Can't you wait until I arrive?"

Jessica and Tyler nearly flinched at the edge in Yoona's voice. Tyler realized he'd rather not provoke Yoona any further – she seemed like she meant business.

"Did I catch you at a bad time, Yoon? Are you on your period or something?"

"Indeed you did. I'll call you once I get there. Sound good?"

"You never change. Call me ASAP."

Yoona shook her head, amused, and playfully rolled her eyes.

---

*LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA*

The members of Red Velvet were busy getting ready for their upcoming concert in a room filled with makeup artists and staff bustling around. Amidst the organized chaos, Seulgi sat comfortably on a couch, indulging in her favorite snack – a can of Pringles. Those in the room, including the members, staff, and makeup artists, couldn't help but chuckle at her laid-back attitude.

Seulgi's reason for this snack break was simple: she needed a moment to relax and gather her thoughts. She was preoccupied with worry for Yoona, as this was the first time she wasn't by her side for a case. She consoled herself with the fact that it was all part of doing her job.

Unbeknownst to her, Joy had captured a candid photo of Seulgi scrunching her nose in thought. Giggling in secret, Joy sent the photo to their group chat. The other members' phones buzzed simultaneously, signaling the arrival of a new message.

yDynamite sent a picture...

Irene shook her head and opened the group chat. When she saw the adorable image of Seulgi, a genuine smile spread across her face. You're too cute, Seulgi. I'm definitely saving this picture.

• LET'S TACO 'BOUT IT •

Yeriana - Someone's saving these precious pictures. I'm not saying it's our leader.

yDynamite - I'm not saying it's Joohyun unnie.

Son-Laf - I'm not saying it's Irene unnie.

Irene bit her lip and rolled her eyes. These girls really love to tease me.

Baechu - What are you all even talking about?!

Yeriana - Unnie, you're pretending you don't know, when in fact I'm right beside you, peeking at your phone.

Son-Laf - Yeah, unnie, I'm on your other side too. You just saved Seulgi's picture a moment ago.

Baechu - Yeah, it'll be easy for me to smack both of you.

Yeri and Wendy were about to make a run for it upon reading Irene's message, but Irene swiftly smacked their heads, playfully reprimanding them.

"Hey, Unnie! What's up with me?" Yeri massaged her head and shot Irene a playful glare.

Irene simply shrugged, maintaining her composure as the makeup artist finished working on her.

"Figure it out yourself," Irene replied coolly, leaning back in her seat.

Wendy shook her head, amused by their banter. Classic Irene.

"I'm going to tell Seul Unnie that you've been saving her pictures,"Irene abruptly sitting up and tugging at the hem of Yeri's top. Yeri raised an eyebrow, teasingly unfazed. "Go ahead, Unnie. We've got separate rooms, you know."

"I dare you, Kim Yerim. If you do that, you'll be dealing with me later," Irene warned, her tone stern.

Yeri's smile turned sheepish, and she let go of Irene's grip. "I was just kidding. Geez." She settled back into her seat, shaking her head. 

Meanwhile, Joy and Wendy exchanged secretive chuckles over the dynamic duo's antics. Irene's attention shifted to Seulgi, who was still seemingly lost in thought after nearly an hour.

"Why don't you just go ask her what's on her mind instead of driving yourself crazy?" Wendy suggested, quietly enough for Irene to hear over the laughter Yeri and Joy were sharing.

Irene sighed audibly. "I think I'm losing it," she muttered under her breath, her words just barely reaching Wendy's ears.

Yeri and Joy were busy giggling and chatting, allowing the two to engage in a private conversation.

"What do you mean?" Wendy turned to face Irene, motioning for the makeup artist to take a break so they could talk privately.

Irene managed a small, forced smile and met Wendy's gaze. "She's driving me insane. Why on earth am I saving her pictures on my phone? I've never done that for anyone except for you three."

Wendy tapped her chin thoughtfully and studied her unnie. "You've gotten comfortable with her, and that's revealing your true self. She's saved you twice, and I think the reason you're acting this way is that it's unusual for you to become so comfortable with someone in just a few days."

Wendy's words hit the mark. Irene slowly nodded, her thoughts aligning with Wendy's analysis. "Just... promise me you won't spill this to anyone, okay?" She requested, revealing her vulnerability to Wendy.

Wendy smirked at Irene, shaking her head playfully. "You've got my word." She saluted, eliciting a laugh from Irene.

"Okay, girls. Get ready, we're starting in 5 minutes," their manager announced as he entered the room.

The members stood up, poised to go on stage. However, Irene noticed that Seulgi remained lost in her thoughts. Turning to her manager and fellow members, Irene made a decision. "You all go ahead. I'll talk to her for a moment." Her manager nodded and left, instructing the rest of the members to follow him.

Irene's teasingly amused members, including Wendy, shot her knowing looks. Why did she even share her vulnerability with Wendy? Now she's in for some good-natured teasing. Rolling her eyes, Irene playfully shooed her members away.

"Relax, Unnie. Don't worry, we'll give you some alone time with her," Joy teased, causing Irene to blush.

"She's turning red. Oh my god!" Yeri exclaimed, laughing. Irene playfully punched their arms.

"Out, all of you." The three saluted her while chuckling before exiting the room.

As Irene debated whether to approach Seulgi or not, she found herself hesitating. They weren't that close to be sharing their troubles with each other. Besides, Seulgi seemed to be completely lost in her own thoughts, not even noticing that there were just the two of them left in the room.

Sighing, Irene turned to leave the room when Seulgi called out to her. Turning around, she was met with a small smile from the tall and enigmatic Seulgi.

"You seem lost in thought," Irene stated as she walked over to Seulgi, taking a seat beside her and studying her.

"Oh, do I?"

Irene playfully rolled her eyes, and Seulgi chuckled at her reaction."Are you okay?" Irene asked with concern, her worry showing for her bodyguard who appeared to be acting unusually.

Seulgi didn't immediately respond, causing Irene's concern to deepen. Seulgi leaned in slowly, and Irene's heart raced at the proximity. In an instant, Seulgi pulled Irene into an embrace, surprising her.

Unbeknownst to Irene, Seulgi often did this when she was having a mental struggle. She would hold on tightly until she felt better, and then she would let go. Irene was speechless, uncertain of what to do. Instead of standing still, she overcame her initial awkwardness and raised her arms to softly draw circles on Seulgi's back.

After a minute, Seulgi gradually released her hold and offered a warm smile to Irene. Irene was left speechless, unable to process the situation. S