Strings

Episode 3: The Scene Part 2

**Yun’s POV**

I checked in one last time before hopping into the car to head to the airport. I’ve done this a million times, but every time I face the crowd, cameras flashing, people screaming, I still get nervous. This time felt different though. It was our first in-person live concert after a two-year gap due to the pandemic.

I pulled myself together, took a deep breath, and hoped for a smooth entry into the terminal. I was dressed decently in a casual all-black outfit (not going into the details), and around my neck hung the pendant my mother gave me, my lucky charm.

There were three cars arranged for us. I got into one with Ho-Sungh-shi. The ride to the airport was peaceful. We chatted about our upcoming schedule and admired the view outside. Everything looked ethereal sunlight glimmering on buildings, trees swaying gently in the breeze. It was the kind of calm you rarely get in this life.

Ho-Sungh:“The weather is really doing us a favor today.”

Yun:“Yeah… Feels like even nature is cheering us on.”

We arrived at the airport, and as expected, the media was already there lined up with their cameras and mics. Of course, there were fans too. Lots of them. Some holding banners, some waving lightsticks, and some just crying tears of joy.

We got out of the cars and waited for the other members to join us. As soon as we were together, we began walking toward the terminal. The bcrowd roared—cheers, claps, people screaming our names.

**Fans:** “Yun-oppa! We love you!”

**Fans:** “Kim Jan! You’re so handsome!”

We smiled, waved, bowed, and sent finger hearts their way. It never gets old. Seeing our fans, so passionate, so supportive, reminds me that we owe everything to them.

After check-in and security, we were escorted to the VVIP Lounge to relax before boarding.

Jan (stretching): “Ahh! The crowd was so loud, my ears almost exploded from hearing my own name!”

Jim:“Hyung, please put a mask on. The glow from your ‘handsome face’ made fans faint, I swear.”

Jan (dramatic): “Oh yes, my beautiful handsome face… Even I get surprised sometimes. Muah!”

Yun (grinning): “It’s the orange juice you drink every morning, Jan. You glow from Vitamin C.”

(Laughter fills the lounge)*

TaeV: “Let’s not forget the fans yelling for Jeon Kook too. He even did that mini dance for them.”

Kook (shy):“They asked! I couldn't say no.”

Nami:“We need to start charging Jan for every compliment he gives himself.”

Jan:“Or at least a fine for every mirror selfie he takes in public.”

We were laughing and teasing each other like we always do. The vibe was light, the energy perfect.

Soon, the boarding announcement came. As we reached our private jet, courtesy of the sponsor company we took a moment to click a few photos. Some of us posed in front of the aircraft stairs. Others made goofy faces or peace signs.

Inside, the jet was luxurious. Huge seats, mood lighting, and soft blankets. You could sleep like a baby here. I settled into my seat, ordered a glass of water, and was about to relax when....

*CRASH!*

TaeV:“Leader-Nami! What did you break this time?!”

(Everyone burst out laughing.)

Kim Nami (rubbing his head):“It was the water jug! It slipped. Not my fault!”

Jan: “Even gravity respects your stage presence. It just wanted to get closer.”

Jim: “Hyung, the jug didn’t ‘slip,’ it surrendered.”

The flight itself was smooth. Barely any turbulence. I curled under the blanket and took a solid nap. Before falling asleep, I snapped a few shots of the clouds and sunset sky from my window. The view was breathtaking like cotton candy spread across an endless canvas.

When we landed, some media personnel were waiting at the destination as well. They took pictures and videos as we made our way to the waiting vans. We were then driven to our hotel a luxury eight-star property booked just for us.

Each of our rooms was more like a full apartment than a hotel suite. Mine was the most minimal one, just the way I like it. Simple, clean lines, with a balcony view overlooking glittering skyscrapers.

I was tired from the flight and decided to take a hot shower. The warm water melted away the stiffness in my body. Feeling fresh, I threw on a white tee and joggers, then jumped onto the soft, bouncy bed.

“This bed is too comfortable… Might skip the next schedule…” I mumbled, already half asleep.

We had schedules in the evening, so a nap right now was the smartest move. I closed my eyes, the sound of faint city traffic in the background, and let myself drift off—hoping for good dreams and an even better tomorrow.