Chapter 1 - Aim, Fire, Breathe
The next day arrived like a whisper quiet, slow, and unremarkable except for the weight of everything it followed.
Nova had been asleep nearly the entire day.
Her body, pushed far past its limits over the past month, had finally shut down. Not even the gentle buzz of her phone on the nightstand or the golden light bleeding through the curtains stirred her. She had tried to eat once two slices of pizza but her body had rejected it. Haesoo had helped her to the bathroom, held her hair back, and then brushed her teeth for her when she could barely lift her arms.
He didn’t ask questions. He didn’t pry. He just stayed.
Now, as the clock blinked 7:04 p.m., Nova’s eyes fluttered open. She blinked slowly, her body still heavy with exhaustion, and for a moment, she just lay there, listening to the quiet hum of the world outside. Her limbs ached with the kind of fatigue that didn’t vanish with rest. It was the weight of a month of pushing herself, of hiding the toll behind flawless execution and a practiced smile.
She turned her head.
Haesoo was still next to her, one arm draped over the space between them, his breathing deep and steady. He looked peaceful the kind of peace she hadn’t felt in weeks.
Carefully, she reached for her phone. Dozens of notifications lit up the screen.
“Nova Reyes stuns in global comeback concert.”
“A true visionary: Nova’s show hailed as performance of the decade.”
“The billionaire pop force reshaping global entertainment.”
“What’s next for the girl who has it all?”
Nova exhaled softly.
She wasn’t a mystery to the world anymore. People knew her name. Knew her face. They watched her every move, and last night had only poured fuel on the fire. But they still didn’t know who she really was. They didn’t see the strings she pulled, the governments she whispered into, the systems she broke and rewrote.
To the public, she was just Nova Reyes the brilliant, untouchable prodigy with too much money, too many talents, and an uncanny ability to rise from every storm.
Not the weapon they built. Not the one who’d learned how to take the power back.
Still tucked under the covers, she shifted closer to Haesoo and rested her hand gently on his chest. His heartbeat was steady a rhythm she never tired of. A reminder that this life she’d clawed her way into was still hers. That he was still hers.
“You’re awake?” he murmured, voice low and thick with sleep.
“Yeah,” she whispered. “Barely.”
“You feeling better?”
She paused. “Ask me again after I try to stand up.”
His lips twitched, and he opened one eye. “You really don’t know how to take it easy, do you?”
“Not when the world’s watching.”
“They always are.”
She didn’t answer. Just nestled against him a little closer, letting herself breathe.
For once, the world could wait.
Just as Nova settled back into the warmth beside him, Haesoo’s phone buzzed on the nightstand.
He reached over lazily, blinking at the caller ID. “My parents,” he muttered, then answered. “Hello?”
“Is she okay now?” his mother’s voice was sharp with concern. “Did you make the soup we told you to?”
Haesoo scratched his head, still half-asleep. “We were sleeping… we just woke up.”
There was a beat of silence.
Then came the scolding.
“You let her sleep without giving her anything light on the stomach? A little rice porridge, even some broth?” his father chimed in this time, sounding equally disappointed.
“She’s been pushing herself nonstop, Haesoo. You said she threw up the pizza. Her body can’t handle heavy food right now.”
“I know,” Haesoo said, rubbing his temple. “I was going to make something soon”
“No,” his mom cut in. “We’ll bring something over. We’re making it now. Just keep her in bed and tell her not to move.”
Haesoo gave a soft laugh despite himself. “That’s not going to be easy.”
“Try anyway. We’ll be there soon.”
He hung up and turned to Nova, who had been listening with an amused expression, still half-tucked under the blanket.
“Are you in trouble?” she asked, voice low and teasing.
“My parents think I’m neglecting their national treasure,” he said, falling back onto the pillow. “They’re bringing food.”
Nova groaned softly and covered her face. “I look like death.”
“They won’t care.”
“I care.”
He leaned over and kissed her forehead. “Then rest until it gets here. I’ll make sure you don’t look like death.”
She peeked at him through her fingers. “Are you calling me ugly?”
“I’m calling you overworked,” he said, brushing hair from her cheek. “But you’re still the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen.”
Her eyes softened. “Smooth.”
“I try.”
Nova sat up slowly, stretching her arms above her head. The blanket slipped down her shoulder, revealing the oversized shirt she’d thrown on earlier. Her hair was tousled, her skin pale, and her body still sluggish from exhaustion.
“I’m going to shower,” she mumbled, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed. “Just in case I smell like… pizza regret.”
Haesoo reached out to steady her, but she waved him off. “I’m fine. I’ll be quick.”
He watched her shuffle across the room, grabbing a fresh pair of grey sweatpants, a loose black T-shirt, and her favorite fluffy slippers from the drawer. She moved slower than usual, but she was stubborn about getting herself cleaned up.
A few minutes later, the sound of running water filled the air.
Haesoo lay back down, staring at the ceiling. The past month had been brutal on her no proper meals, no rest, no time to breathe. Now that everything was done, the silence felt too heavy.
When Nova returned, towel drying the ends of her damp hair, she looked a little better flushed from the steam, dressed down in the softest clothes she owned.
“Better?” Haesoo asked, sitting up.
She nodded, padding barefoot over to her side of the bed. “Yeah. No longer smell like despair.”
He smiled and pulled the blanket back for her. “Come here. They’ll be here soon anyway.”
Nova slipped in beside him, leaning against his shoulder, fresh and warm from the shower.
“They’re going to bring enough food for ten people, aren’t they?” she muttered.
“They always do.”
A soft buzz broke the silence.
Haesoo grabbed his phone off the nightstand. A text from his mom lit up the screen:
We’re downstairs. Come help us with the food.
He sighed, already knowing there’d be enough to feed a small army. “They’re here.”
Nova groaned, half-buried under the blanket. “Tell them thank you… but also tell them I can’t eat ten dishes right now.”
Haesoo smiled, leaned down, and kissed the top of her head. “Just rest. I’ll bring it up.”
She mumbled something into the pillow that sounded like ‘don’t let them interrogate you’ before closing her eyes again.
Downstairs, Haesoo opened the front door to see both his parents standing there his mother holding a large covered tray and his father balancing two bags full of containers.
“She still hasn’t eaten properly, has she?” his mom asked immediately.
“She threw up the pizza earlier. Her body’s still adjusting,” Haesoo said, taking one of the bags.
“You should’ve made her the soup like I told you,” his mother scolded, stepping into the house without waiting for an invitation. “That girl needs warmth in her body. Her system is probably frozen from all the Coke Zero she drinks.”
His father chuckled behind her. “And stress. Don’t forget stress. She’s like a firecracker holding it all in.”
“I know, I know,” Haesoo said, leading them to the kitchen. “She’s resting now. Just showered.”
They set the food down, revealing fresh rice, a pot of homemade seaweed soup, side dishes, and even cut fruit.
“She’s family now,” his mom said, neatly unpacking containers. “You take care of each other. That’s how this works.”
Haesoo nodded softly.
When he returned upstairs with a tray, Nova sat up against the headboard, looking drowsy but curious. “Did they bring the whole country?”
“Just the southern half,” he teased, setting the tray on the bed. “Soup, rice, fruit. All handmade. You’re being spoiled.”
Nova smiled weakly. “Remind me to thank them later.”
“You will,” he said, handing her a spoon. “And this time, no throwing up.”
Nova scooted forward, pulling the tray closer. The smell of the soup was comforting warm, savory, just the right amount of seaweed. Her stomach grumbled faintly, unsure if it was excited or warning her.
She picked up the spoon and dipped it into the bowl. Haesoo watched her carefully from beside her, trying not to hover, but absolutely hovering.
She took a small sip. Then another.
“It’s good,” she said quietly, voice still raspy from sleep. “Really good.”
“Mom made it this morning. Said it’s the only thing you should be eating until your body settles.”
Nova didn’t respond, just kept sipping. Her movements were slow, cautious, like she didn’t quite trust her stomach yet.
A few minutes passed in silence. She managed half the bowl and a couple bites of rice before she set the spoon down and leaned back against the headboard, breathing through her nose.
Haesoo took the tray gently. “Too much?”
Nova nodded. “Better than earlier, though.” She looked at him. “I actually tasted it this time.”
“That’s a win,” he said softly, brushing a few strands of hair behind her ear. “You’re doing better than yesterday.”
Nova rested her head on his shoulder, eyes fluttering closed again. “Tell your mom I owe her.”
“You can tell her yourself tomorrow,” he said, wrapping an arm around her. “Right now, just focus on not passing out in the soup.”
She chuckled under her breath, already slipping back into sleep.
The next morning, Nova was still bundled under the blanket, her face buried in the pillow when her phone started buzzing beside her.
She groaned softly and reached for it, blinking against the sunlight seeping through the curtains. Her voice was hoarse as she answered, “Hello?”
A chorus of familiar voices exploded through the speaker.
“Novaaaaa!”
“Finally, she’s alive.”
“We rented out a shooting arena!” Camila’s voice rang out excitedly. “It’s one of those high-end tactical paintball ones snipers, rifles, full simulation.”
Nova blinked. “What?”
“In California,” Mateo clarified, laughing. “Two days from now. You said you’re on break, right? Come blow off some steam.”
Rina chimed in, “You’ve been off the grid since the concert. This is the perfect way to reboot.”
“And bring Haesoo!” Tae added quickly. “Has he ever shot anything before?”
Nova glanced sideways. Haesoo was still asleep, wrapped up in the comforter like a cocoon.
“No,” she muttered. “There’s nowhere here to teach him.”
“Well, now there is,” Jin said. “He can come watch. Or scream. Or both.”
“Min might be worse than him anyway,” Lee joked.
“I’m right here!” Min shouted in the background.
Nova couldn’t hold back a tired laugh. “You’re all ridiculous.”
“And you love us,” Mateo said smugly. “We’ll send the details. You’ve got two days to show up.”
Nova rubbed her temple. “Fine. I’ll let you know.”
“Atta girl,” Camila said. “Tell your boy to pack sunscreen.”
The call ended with overlapping laughter, and Nova dropped the phone onto the bed with a sigh. She turned her head, watching Haesoo sleep quietly.
“You have no idea what you’re walking into,” she mumbled with a faint smirk.
Haesoo stirred beside her, groggy and warm under the covers. “Who called?”
Nova tucked her phone under the pillow. “My friends. Mateo and the rest of the chaos squad.”
He turned his head toward her, eyes half-lidded. “What are they planning this time?”
She smiled. “They rented out a tactical paintball arena. The kind with fake rifles, snipers, night vision all that. Said it’s for fun, but we both know it’s a full-on battle simulation.”
He let out a soft groan. “Didn’t we almost die the last time we hung out with them?”
Nova laughed. “That was the snowboarding trip. You’ll survive this.”
“And they want me there?”
“They said you can come watch,” she teased. “Or join in. Your call.”
He gave her a sideways look. “So they want to shoot me.”
“They like you,” she said with a grin. “But yeah… they definitely want to shoot you.”
Haesoo raised a brow. “Do they seriously expect me to run around with snipers and paint grenades?”
Nova shrugged as she slid out of bed. “You don’t have to come. They all know how to shoot. It’s second nature to them.”
He watched her stretch, then tug on a hoodie. “And you?”
She gave him a look. “I’m worse. I’ll win. They just don’t know it yet.”
“Of course you will,” he muttered with a smirk.
Nova walked toward the bathroom. “Anyway, don’t feel like you need to tag along. It’s just something dumb we do when we’re all off work.”
“You mean… international agents playing war games for fun?”
“Exactly.”
Haesoo leaned back on the pillow. “Sounds terrifying.”
Nova popped her head back in. “It is. That’s why I love it.”
Nova disappeared into the closet, calling out over her shoulder, “I’m going to get ready to leave.”
Haesoo sat up, rubbing his eyes. “You’re really going to California for paintball?”
She reappeared with her travel duffel and started tossing things inside—black gear, gloves, extra boots. “It’s more than paintball. It’s tactical training disguised as fun.”
He leaned on his elbow. “And you’re just going to leave me behind?”
Nova paused for a beat, then glanced at him over her shoulder. “You can come if you want.”
He blinked, surprised. “Really?”
She shrugged casually. “Yeah. They already know you. You’ve survived hanging out with them before. Just don’t cry if you get hit.”
He smirked. “I won’t cry if you don’t cheat.”
Nova gave him a mock innocent look. “I never cheat. I just win.”
Nova zipped up her duffel bag and tossed it onto the bed. “Start packing. We’re flying out in an hour.”
Haesoo blinked from the edge of the bed. “Wait an hour?”
She was already on the phone with Asher. “Get the jet ready. We’re headed to California. Me and Haesoo.”
He could only hear Asher’s muffled voice on the other end before Nova cut in, “Yes, I know it’s last minute. No, it’s not for work. My friends rented a paintball arena.”
Pause.
“Yes, it’s real. Paintballs. Not bullets. Relax.”
She hung up and turned to Haesoo, already walking toward the closet. “You’ve got twenty minutes to pack. Don’t make me choose your clothes for you.”
“I’m not even awake yet,” he groaned, dragging his feet toward his suitcase.
Nova smirked. “Then you better wake up fast. I’m not missing this flight, and I’m not carrying your bag.”
Nova grabbed her towel and headed for the bathroom, calling over her shoulder, “I’m showering. When you finish packing, shower too we’re not showing up looking like we just rolled out of bed.”
Haesoo, half-awake and digging through drawers, mumbled, “Pretty sure that’s exactly what I just did…”
Nova smirked before disappearing behind the door, the sound of running water starting a few seconds later.
Haesoo sighed, shook his head, and muttered, “California with her friends… paintball… Why does that already sound like trouble?”
Still, he moved faster. If she said one hour, she meant fifty minutes.
Nova came down the stairs dressed in a fitted hoodie and joggers, her damp hair tied in a low ponytail. She made a beeline for the kitchen and pulled out her favorite tote bag, already mentally sorting what she needed for the flight.
Since it was a last-minute trip, there wouldn’t be flight attendants not even Asher could pull that together in under an hour.
She opened the pantry and started packing with sharp efficiency ramen cups, protein bars, a couple bottles of water, and, of course, Coke Zero. Then she dug into the fridge and grabbed two more sodas, shoving them into the side pockets of the bag.
By the time Haesoo came downstairs with their luggage, she was zipping the tote shut.
“You’re packing snacks?” he asked, surprised.
“No flight attendants,” she replied simply. “Unless you want to starve over the Pacific.”
He raised an eyebrow. “Ramen on a jet?”
Nova looked at him like he had asked a dumb question. “I like what I like.”
He smiled as he took the bag from her. “You really don’t change.”
“Why would I?” she said, grabbing her phone and keys. “Let’s go.”
Two black SUVs were already waiting outside the house, engines humming quietly in the early evening calm. As soon as Nova and Haesoo stepped out with their bags, a pair of security agents opened the doors for them without a word.
Nova slid into the back seat first, her tote bag of snacks tucked beside her. Haesoo followed, glancing once at the driver before settling in beside her.
The ride was quiet but fast, weaving through traffic with ease. Asher had clearly cleared the path in advance. No delays. No interruptions. Just the smooth sound of tires on pavement and the occasional update over the radio.
They reached the private hangar within twenty minutes.
The jet stood ready sleek, black, and unmistakably hers.
One of the guards opened the SUV door, and Nova stepped out, wind catching the ends of her hair. Haesoo came out behind her, carrying both their travel bags like he always did. The stairs to the jet lowered with a hiss.
“Jet’s stocked with what I could get last minute,” one of the ground crew said to Nova.
She gave a short nod. “Thanks. We won’t be long.”
She turned to Haesoo as they reached the base of the stairs. “You still sure you want to come?”
He smirked. “Too late to back out now, Reyes.”
Nova smiled faintly and led the way up.
As they settled into their seats on the jet, Nova tucked her snack bag into the side storage pocket while Haesoo buckled in across from her. The engines began to hum louder, signaling they were moments from takeoff.
Haesoo leaned back, arms folded casually as he looked over at her. “So… how big is this place your friends rented?”
Nova glanced up from her phone, a slight smile tugging at her lips. “Huge. It’s not just some indoor paintball joint. It’s a private tactical complex multi-level, sniper towers, built-in fog generators, sound effects, reactive targets. They only rent it out by special request.”
Haesoo blinked. “For paintball?”
She gave a one-shoulder shrug. “We don’t really know how to relax.”
He laughed under his breath. “I’ve noticed.”
Nova leaned her head back against the seat and closed her eyes for a second. “They wanted to make sure I didn’t get bored during my break.”
Haesoo tilted his head, watching her quietly. “And you’re sure they won’t just shoot me by accident?”
She opened one eye. “If they do, it won’t be by accident.”
He raised a brow.
Nova grinned, then closed her eyes again. “Don’t worry. You’re coming with me. That makes you untouchable.”
As the jet cruised smoothly above the clouds, the soft hum of the engines filled the space between them. Nova had finished checking her messages and now leaned back, eyes slightly closed, the sunlight from the window brushing across her face.
Haesoo reached over and gently nudged her foot with his.
She opened her eyes, looking at him.
“I’m glad I came,” he said casually, voice low.
Nova didn’t answer right away. She just watched him for a moment, a small warmth spreading in her chest. Then she leaned forward slightly, resting her arms on her knees.
“I’m happy you came too,” she said softly. “It wouldn’t have felt right without you.”
Haesoo tilted his head, smiling faintly. “You mean without someone to witness your paintball carnage?”
Nova gave a quiet laugh. “No. I mean this is my world. And I like it better when you’re in it.”
He didn’t say anything. Just looked at her like she’d said something that left a mark.
Nova leaned back again, arms crossed now as she smirked playfully. “But also yes, I do need someone to witness the carnage.”
Haesoo chuckled. “That sounds more like you.”
The jet hummed softly beneath them as it sliced through the clouds. Nova was curled up sideways on one of the plush leather seats, her legs tucked beneath her as she sipped a soda. She glanced at Haesoo across from her, who was flipping through a playlist on the shared tablet.
“Hey,” she said, voice casual. “Did you let your parents know we were leaving the country?”
Haesoo nodded without looking up. “Yeah. I texted them right before we boarded.”
Nova raised a brow. “That last-minute?”
“They dropped off food for you last night,” he replied, finally meeting her eyes. “I figured I owed them at least a heads-up.”
Nova smirked. “You definitely did.”
“They said to make sure you eat properly this time or my mom’s flying to California herself.”
Nova grinned. “Tell her I’ll be good.”
Haesoo leaned back, stretching his arms. “She said she’s making that soup again when we get back.”
Nova let out a soft sigh. “I’m starting to like her more than you.”
“I’m okay with that.”
Haesoo glanced out the window at the clouds stretching endlessly below them, then looked back at Nova. “Can I ask you something?”
Nova tilted her head, sipping from her soda again. “You just did.”
He gave her a look, and she smirked.
“Go on,” she added.
“Why didn’t we just teleport to California? Would’ve taken five seconds.”
Nova’s gaze drifted to the window for a moment, thoughtful. “I try not to use my powers unless it’s necessary.”
“Why?”
“Because it keeps me feeling human,” she said simply. “The second I start using them for convenience… I stop seeing the line. And I’ve worked too hard to stay on this side of it.”
Haesoo was quiet for a moment, watching her. “You ever think you crossed it already?”
Nova didn’t flinch. “Of course. That’s why I’m careful now.”
He nodded slowly, then leaned his head back against the seat. “Makes sense.”
She glanced over at him, a faint smile tugging at her lips. “You’re asking deeper questions lately.”
“I’ve been around you too long.”
Nova chuckled. “Not long enough.”
Haesoo leaned his head back, eyes closing briefly. The hum of the jet, the gentle pressurized air, the quiet between them it all settled in.
Nova turned slightly in her seat, watching him for a beat. There was something in the way he sat beside her. Trusting. Unbothered. Completely at ease despite the world they lived in.
She reached over and gently touched his hand. Haesoo opened his eyes at the contact.
“What?” he asked softly.
Nova didn’t answer right away. Instead, she leaned in and kissed him slowly, with intention. Not rushed. Not playful. Just quiet and sure.
Haesoo stilled at first, then kissed her back, the warmth of her palm pressing into his cheek as he deepened it just slightly. When they pulled apart, her forehead rested against his.
“I’m glad you came,” she whispered.
“I always will,” he replied, voice low.
Nova smiled, just barely. “I know.”
Nova glanced at Haesoo again. The kiss had softened something in both of them, but now she noticed the heaviness in his eyes the slight droop of his posture, the way he blinked slower each time.
“You didn’t sleep much last night, did you?” she murmured.
He tried to brush it off with a quiet smile. “I’m fine.”
“No, you’re tired,” she said, shifting slightly in her seat. She gently tugged him toward her. “Come here.”
Haesoo hesitated, but she was already guiding him.
Nova leaned back and pulled his head onto her shoulder. “Just rest. We still have a couple hours.”
“You sure?” he mumbled, his voice already softer.
“Yeah,” she whispered. “I’ve got you.”
Haesoo relaxed against her, the tension in his body fading as the quiet rhythm of the jet lulled him toward sleep. Nova stayed still, one arm wrapped loosely around him, eyes staring ahead but thoughts far away content, for now, with this moment of peace.
Haesoo stirred slowly, his lashes fluttering open as he blinked the sleep away. The hum of the jet surrounded them, steady and calm. He lifted his head slightly from where it had rested against Nova’s shoulder.
She was already watching him.
“Did you sleep too?” he murmured, voice hoarse from sleep.
Nova shook her head. “No. I slept a lot yesterday.” She leaned in and gently pushed his hair away from his face, her fingers brushing across his forehead with quiet affection. “You needed it more than I did.”
Haesoo gave a small smile, eyes still heavy. “You always say that.”
“Because it’s always true.”
He sat up more fully, rubbing the back of his neck. “How long was I out?”
“A while. You didn’t move.” Her tone was light, teasing. “If I didn’t know better, I’d think you died.”
He let out a soft laugh, then tilted his head. “You didn’t get bored?”
“I was busy watching you drool.”
He gave her a narrowed look, and she laughed quietly before standing. “Come on, sleepyhead. You hungry?”
“A little.”
“I’ll make you ramen.” Nova walked toward the small galley of the jet. “You’re lucky I packed some.”
Haesoo watched her from his seat, the way her hair swayed with each step, the comfort in her movements. Then he reached up and touched the spot where her fingers had brushed his face.
Warm. Familiar.
Loved.
Nova returned from the small kitchenette with a steaming cup of ramen in her hands and set it down in front of Haesoo.
“For you,” she said simply.
Haesoo blinked. “You’re not eating?”
She reached into the large black tote bag resting beside her seat and pulled out a protein bar, holding it up. “I am. Just not the ramen. I think it’ll be too greasy for my stomach right now.”
Haesoo looked between the ramen and the protein bar, then back at her. “You sure you’re okay?”
Nova unwrapped the bar, her expression calm but honest. “I haven’t really eaten real food in weeks. I just need to go slow.”
He nodded, eyes softening. “You’re taking care of me while you’re the one recovering.”
“That’s what I do,” she said with a small shrug, biting into the bar. “Besides, watching you eat makes me feel like I’m doing something right.”
Haesoo let out a quiet laugh and picked up the chopsticks. “Then I’ll eat it all. You’ll feel like a genius.”
She smiled without looking at him, leaning her head back slightly against the seat as she chewed, her eyes half-closed in a rare moment of peace.
The jet touched down on a discreet private airstrip surrounded by nothing but dry hills and open land. As the doors opened, Nova stepped out first, her sunglasses already on despite the overcast sky. Haesoo followed, his duffel slung over his shoulder.
A black SUV was waiting. One of her friends was already behind the wheel, waving them over with a lazy grin.
“Welcome to the middle of nowhere,” Nova said, amused, glancing back at Haesoo as they got in.
They drove for about twenty minutes down a winding dirt road before the private arena finally came into view a massive, industrial-style facility surrounded by fences, towers, and empty landscape. In the center of the property stood a sleek, modern building the small hotel reserved for guests. It looked completely out of place, like someone had dropped a luxury hideout into a combat zone.
As they pulled up, the doors opened and voices rang out.
Mateo was the first to greet them, arms wide open. “About time! We’ve been setting up scenarios all morning.”
Camila appeared beside him with a grin. “You’re lucky we like you, Reyes. This whole place cost a fortune.”
Nova smirked. “You love spending money on things that let you shoot at each other.”
Min jogged over, pulling Nova into a quick hug before glancing at Haesoo. “Welcome back, idol boy.”
Haesoo gave a small wave. “I’m just here for moral support.”
“Liar,” Rina called from the steps. “We all know you’re secretly better at sniping than Nova.”
Nova shot her a look. “Don’t start.”
The group laughed, and Nova turned to Haesoo. “We’ll check in, change, and meet them in the training bay.”
He nodded, eyes drifting to the wide stretch of simulated battlefield beyond the main building. “This place is huge.”
Nova smiled. “Told you it’d be fun.”
The hotel was sleek and private, tucked away in the middle of nowhere — a modern structure with matte-black walls, large glass windows, and a faint hum of electricity in the air from the nearby simulation field. The check-in desk was nearly empty, just one staff member waiting behind the polished marble counter.
Nova walked up first, pulling her phone from her pocket. “Reservation under Reyes.”
The woman at the desk typed quickly, then smiled. “Yes. One suite. Top floor. Here’s your key.”
“Thanks,” Nova replied, accepting the key card and turning to Haesoo. “Come on. Let’s change.”
The suite was more spacious than expected sleek and modern, with a minimalist open floor plan. One king-sized bed sat in the center of the room with floor-to-ceiling windows lining the back wall, offering a view of the dusty terrain and the edge of the training field.
Nova dropped her bag on the bench near the bed and toed off her shoes. “I’m going to shower and change. You do the same. Ten minutes.”
She disappeared into the bathroom without waiting for a reply. Haesoo took his time unpacking, glancing around the suite it was more of a luxury bunker than a hotel room. A small kitchenette, a dark-toned living area, and a walk-in wardrobe. Of course Nova would choose a place like this. Private, fortified, and well-stocked.
When Nova stepped back out, her wet hair was slicked into a braid and she was dressed in her favorite tactical gear fitted black pants, a cropped black compression shirt, a sleek harness belt that hugged her waist, and matte black boots. The sharp swipe of eyeliner under her eyes only made her look more dangerous.
She grabbed her gloves from the table, then glanced at him. “What?”
Haesoo blinked. “Just how are you always ready for battle and a magazine cover at the same time?”
Nova rolled her eyes and tossed his shirt at him. “Move it, Jeon. You’ve got five minutes.”
He laughed, pulling the shirt over his head and disappearing into the bathroom to change.
By the time he came out dressed in black combat pants, a lightweight jacket, and gear Nova had picked out for him back in Seoul she was already by the door, arms crossed, waiting.
“You’re not bad,” she said, giving him a once-over. “Now let’s go. They’re probably already arguing about who gets to shoot first.”
“Should I be scared?”
She smirked. “You should be taking notes.”
On the walk to the arena, the desert wind brushed lightly across the open field, the low hum of drones and distant target pings already echoing through the air. A long row of equipment tables stood ahead stocked with tactical gear, helmets, gloves, and rows of guns, all designed for simulation but modeled exactly like the real thing.
Nova slowed her steps, throwing a quick glance at Haesoo.
“Stay behind me,” she said calmly. “They’re probably already watching from a distance.”
They stepped under the shaded gear station. Nova immediately reached for a black tactical helmet and slid it over Haesoo’s head before he could say anything. It fit snugly, the visor darkening automatically in the sunlight.
“Don’t take that off,” she said as she adjusted the strap under his chin. “They’re going to try to snipe. This’ll protect your eyes.”
“Snipe?” Haesoo echoed. “Isn’t this supposed to be fun?”
Nova didn’t answer she was already moving down the line, checking over the weapons, pointing each one out with brief but precise instructions.
“This one’s your basic assault low recoil, semi-auto. This one’s for long range, don’t use it unless you’re absolutely sure. This one,” she held up a compact pistol with a faint smile, “is my favorite. Light, fast, and deadly if you know what you’re doing.”
Haesoo leaned in as she talked, watching her hands move with practiced confidence. She made it look easy too easy. Every step, every choice was calculated. It was almost intimidating… almost.
“You’re really in your element right now,” he muttered.
“I live for this,” she replied, handing him a basic rifle. “You won’t be shooting today, not unless you want to lose.”
He blinked. “Thanks for the vote of confidence.”
Nova smirked and turned back toward the field. “You can run. Or you can learn.”
Nova moved down the line of gear with fluid efficiency, her fingers brushing over each weapon like she knew them personally. She paused in front of a standard rifle and lifted it, testing the weight with a quick flick of her wrist before turning to Haesoo.
“This one’s for you,” she said, handing it to him. “It’s light, balanced, and easy to control. You’ll be moving a lot, so you need something you can lift without thinking.”
He took it carefully, the metal cool in his hands.
Next, she grabbed a sidearm sleek and matte black and slipped it into a holster she attached to his belt. “Just in case you drop the first one.”
Haesoo watched as she checked over a sniper rifle for herself, inspecting the scope before slinging it over her shoulder. She clipped a pistol to her own thigh and opened a small case of paintball ammo that looked just like live rounds.
Nova loaded a few magazines, then turned to him. “Watch.”
She snapped open the rifle, slid in the ammo, and locked it in place with a satisfying click. Then she did it again, slower this time, eyes flicking to his.
“Your turn.”
Haesoo followed her steps, a little clumsy at first, but Nova didn’t correct him harshly. She guided his hands gently, adjusting his grip, showing him how to feed the rounds and click the mag into place.
“Good,” she murmured. “Not bad for someone who sings for a living.”
“Thanks,” he said dryly, “really boosting my confidence here.”
Nova only smirked. She stepped in close, strapping a light ammo belt across his chest and slipping extra rounds into the pouches.
“You’re fully loaded. Stay behind me, don’t wander off, and if anyone aims a sniper at your head duck.”
“You’re enjoying this a little too much,” he muttered.
“I’m just making sure my favorite civilian doesn’t get shot in the eye,” she replied sweetly, tightening the last strap. “Come on. They’re probably already waiting to ambush us.”
With a final tug on his gear, she turned and led the way toward the open arena a smirk tugging at her lips, the sniper slung across her back like a warning.
As they stepped into the open terrain of the arena, the silence was thick — unnatural. The landscape mimicked an urban warzone: abandoned cars, makeshift barriers, sniper nests built into the shells of ruined buildings.
Nova slid her helmet on, the visor flickering briefly before stabilizing. She adjusted the sniper strap across her shoulder and whispered, “Stay low. Watch my six. Don’t wander, Jeon.”
Haesoo gave a small nod, already tense, heart pounding.
They were only ten steps in when a paintball cracked against the wall near them close. Too close.
Nova didn’t flinch. She dropped to a crouch, swept the area with sharp eyes, and muttered, “Camila. She always fires first.”
Without hesitation, she slid the sniper off her back, aimed through the narrow break in a ruined window across the lot and fired.
Thwack.
A loud, “Ugh seriously?” echoed from the far side.
“One down,” Nova said flatly, already moving.
Behind a stack of rusted barrels, another shot flew their way. Nova ducked, pulled her pistol, and circled the stack. “Jin likes close range.”
The moment she saw the shadow move, she sprinted forward, feinted left, and rolled into cover behind him. He didn’t even see her coming. One smooth shot to the chest, and Jin groaned.
“Two.”
A second later, Min and Tae launched a pincer attack one from a roof, the other on foot.
Nova snapped her fingers at Haesoo. “Get behind the car.”
He obeyed instantly.
She spun, lifted the sniper again, and with two precise shots pop, pop both boys grunted as the paintballs struck.
Min from the roof.
Tae mid-sprint.
“Four.”
Nova moved with terrifying fluidity a ghost weaving between cover. Haesoo tried to follow her pattern, but she was always one step ahead, predicting where her opponents would strike before they even knew it themselves.
Behind a makeshift wall, a flash of bright hair moved Rina.
Nova’s steps slowed.
She switched to her pistol.
Rina was quick, clever, and deadly at mid-range.
But Nova was faster.
They traded shots in a blur, but Nova dropped to one knee mid-dodge and tagged Rina center mass before Rina could reset her aim.
“Five.”
Just two left: Mateo and Lee.
A distant sound a faint echo of movement across gravel.
Nova narrowed her eyes. “Mateo’s flanking.”
She pulled Haesoo back into a small shed. “Stay here. Don’t move until I come back.”
Then she was gone.
Moments later, two cracks rang out in rapid succession like punctuation marks.
Mateo’s distant “Dammit!” was followed by Lee’s exaggerated groan, “I didn’t even move yet!”
Nova reappeared minutes later, calm and casual, lifting her helmet with a victorious smirk. “Seven.”
Haesoo blinked at her. “That was… insane.”
She shrugged. “They knew I was coming.”
“You didn’t miss once.”
“I don’t.”
The siren sounded across the arena signaling the end of the round.
One by one, Nova’s friends began stumbling out of their hiding spots, arms raised in mock defeat, splattered in streaks of paint across their tactical vests, helmets, and sleeves.
Mateo was the first to approach, pulling off his helmet with a dramatic groan. “You really had to snipe me in the neck? That paintball nearly took my soul.”
Nova gave him a lazy smirk. “You left yourself open. Rookie mistake.”
Camila followed next, shaking out her ponytail as she pointed at Nova. “No one else shot. Just her. She’s a damn turret in heels.”
“She’s not even wearing heels,” Rina added, limping slightly. “And she still made me trip into a damn ditch.”
Lee wiped purple paint from his face and glanced at Haesoo. “How are you still alive, man?”
“I stayed behind cover,” Haesoo admitted, wide-eyed. “She told me not to move.”
“That’s the smartest move you made all day,” Jin said, tossing his helmet to the side. “Even I forgot how terrifying she is when she’s not holding back.”
Min stepped forward, arm around Tae’s shoulder. “Can we at least pretend we stood a chance?”
“No,” Tae said immediately. “She made it personal.”
Nova looked over the group, completely unbothered. “Don’t complain. You signed up for this.”
“You didn’t have to snipe all of us,” Rina said, hands on her hips.
Nova raised an eyebrow. “Yes, I did.”
“She’s not even smug about it anymore,” Mateo muttered, waving at the small drone cam still recording their match. “She’s just built different.”
“She’s worse now,” Camila added, laughing. “She’s relaxed and accurate.”
Nova holstered the pistol and looked at Haesoo. “See? I told you they all know how to shoot.”
He looked at the group, now bickering playfully amongst themselves. “And you still wiped them all out.”
“Teamwork makes the dream work,” Nova said, completely deadpan.
Mateo scoffed. “Lies. You didn’t even give us a chance to breathe.”
“You shouldn’t have hesitated,” she replied smoothly. “Next time don’t.”
The group laughed again, shaking their heads as they headed back toward the hotel for water and snacks.
Nova nudged Haesoo gently with her elbow. “Want to try next round?”
He looked at her with a smirk. “Do I look like I have a death wish?”
By the time the sun dipped low behind the hills, the heat of the day had settled into a golden warmth. The group returned to the private hotel on the edge of the arena sweaty, paint-streaked, and exhausted.
Inside the lounge area of the suite, music played softly from a speaker one of them had hooked up, and trays of snacks and drinks had been laid out: chips, soda, sparkling water, energy bars, and a few leftover pastries from earlier. Someone had even ordered pizza ahead of time, now steaming hot in opened boxes on the coffee table.
Nova, now changed into a fresh pair of joggers and a cropped tee, was curled up on the oversized couch with a cold Coke Zero in hand. She looked completely at ease for the first time in weeks.
Mateo entered holding two slices of pizza stacked on a napkin and flopped down beside her. “Still mad about that sniper hit.”
“I gave you five seconds,” Nova replied, lifting her can to her lips. “That’s more than I gave Tae.”
Tae let out a dramatic gasp from the floor. “You told me to run and then shot me in the back!”
“Lesson one,” Nova said, amused. “Don’t trust me in combat.”
Lee pointed to Haesoo, who was laughing from the armchair beside her. “And you. You just watched? The betrayal.”
“She told me to stay put,” Haesoo said, raising his hands in mock defense. “I followed orders.”
“He’s learning,” Nova said, tapping her can against his water bottle. “Smartest move of the day.”
Rina lay stretched across the floor with a blanket. “Nova, remind me again why we keep inviting you to these things?”
“Because you love me,” Nova said sweetly.
“Because we want to die,” Camila added with a grin. “But at least we die stylishly.”
Min walked in, balancing a bowl of chips. “Honestly, I missed this.”
Nova nodded slightly. “So did I.”
The group fell into a comfortable rhythm teasing, joking, reminiscing. For a while, it felt like they were just kids again, without missions or targets or power plays. Just paintballs, laughter, and inside jokes.
As the night deepened, some began to drift off. Rina snored lightly from a beanbag. Tae was trying to convince Lee to play a card game. Mateo had his head tipped back against the couch, humming along to the song in the background.
Haesoo looked over at Nova. “You look… peaceful.”
She turned to him, lips curved slightly. “Because I am.”
He watched her a moment, and said softly, “You should be like this more often.”
“I’m trying,” she murmured.
Then she leaned her head against his shoulder, content for once to let the world be quiet around them.
The music had quieted. Most of the group was half-sprawled across beanbags, couches, and floor cushions, drowsy from the day’s chaos and the food coma that followed. A warm amber light from the floor lamps filled the room in a soft haze.
Nova was still tucked beside Haesoo on the couch, eyes fluttering shut now and then, but her awareness never really faded. She heard everything always did.
“Hey, Reyes,” Mateo said suddenly, voice low but curious. “You planning on going back to missions anytime soon?”
A couple heads turned toward her.
Nova opened her eyes slowly and looked at him, then at the rest of the group.
Rina sat up a little, brushing her hair back. “It’s been quiet lately. Almost too quiet without you.”
Camila added, “The world’s been spinning just fine, but it’s weird when you’re not the one doing the spinning.”
Nova took a slow sip of her Coke Zero before replying. “I don’t know,” she said, honest but unreadable. “I told HQ I needed time off. And they gave it to me. Two weeks.”
“Doesn’t answer the question,” Tae said, nudging her knee with his foot. “Are you going back after that?”
Nova’s fingers tapped against her can.
“I’ll go back when I want to,” she said at last, not cold just controlled. “Not when they say. Not because they say.”
Jin, quiet until now, said, “You sound different.”
“I am.”
Haesoo looked at her, his eyes flicking between her face and the way her grip subtly tightened around the drink in her hand.
Min said gently, “You don’t owe them forever, Nova.”
Nova’s expression didn’t change, but her gaze lingered on each of them these people who knew her before the power, before the apex whispers, before she became someone feared.
“I know,” she murmured.
And that was all she said.
The silence that followed wasn’t awkward. It was respectful.
She didn’t need to explain herself to them. And they didn’t need to push further.
Instead, Mateo raised his half-empty soda and said, “Well, whether you go back or not next round, you’re on my team. I’m not getting sniped again.”
Nova finally smiled, tired but genuine. “Then don’t stand still next time.”
The room erupted in soft laughter again, letting the heavy moment dissolve naturally into the comfort of familiarity.
Nova stood up, stretching slightly, then reached for her helmet.
“I’m going to the shooting range,” she said casually, but there was a spark of something sharper in her tone purpose, maybe. “Going to show Haesoo how to shoot properly.”
Before anyone could reply, she grabbed Haesoo’s hand without hesitation and tugged him up from the couch.
“Come on,” she said to him, eyes glinting. “Lesson one.”
Haesoo blinked in surprise, but let himself be pulled along. “Right now?”
“Right now,” she said. “You had your nap. No excuses.”
Their friends watched with amusement as the two slipped out of the lounge. Mateo called after them, “Don’t let her snipe you in the face!”
Haesoo glanced over his shoulder. “Thanks for the encouragement.”
Nova didn’t even look back she just raised a middle finger over her shoulder as they walked into the night, hand in hand, toward the empty range lit by floodlights in the distance.
The air outside was cool, crisp, and quiet the kind of quiet Nova liked. Controlled. Predictable. And the perfect place to teach him how to fire a weapon.
The range was nestled against the outer ridge of the arena, far enough from the hotel and lounge to feel isolated. Target dummies lined the back wall in various shapes and distances some stationary, others rigged to move sporadically.
Nova led Haesoo to one of the cleared stalls and handed him a smaller handgun first. It was lighter, easier to handle.
“Okay,” she said, brushing her hair behind her ear as she stepped behind him. “Feet shoulder-width apart. Don’t lock your elbows you’ll lose control on recoil. And breathe.”
Haesoo adjusted his stance while glancing down at the weapon. “Feels weird.”
“It always does in the beginning,” she said softly, stepping closer. Her hands gently guided his arms into place. “But you’ll get used to it.”
He exhaled slowly and raised the gun. “Like this?”
“Almost. Relax your shoulders don’t aim like you’re tense. Aim like you’ve done this a thousand times.”
He adjusted again, and this time, she gave a small nod.
“Good. Now shoot.”
He hesitated, then pulled the trigger. The shot fired off with a sharp crack, hitting the lower left of the nearest dummy. Not dead-on, but not terrible either.
Haesoo blinked. “That was…”
“Not bad,” Nova said, smirking. “But you flinched. Don’t flinch. Again.”
He glanced at her, half-laughing. “You’re enjoying this.”
She stepped beside him, lifting her own pistol heavier, sleeker. “I enjoy you learning things that could save your life.”
With zero hesitation, she fired. Her bullet landed clean through the center of the furthest dummy’s head.
Haesoo stared. “Okay. That was hot.”
Nova smirked and chambered another round. “Focus, Jeon.”
They stayed at the range longer than either expected.
Nova adjusted his grip every few rounds, occasionally correcting his posture with a gentle touch to his back or shoulder. Every time she leaned in, Haesoo caught her scent — something clean and faintly sweet, like peach tea and cold air. It made it a little harder to focus, but he tried.
After another burst of shots, Haesoo lowered the gun, lips pressed in frustration. “Why do I keep pulling left?”
“Because you’re tensing your wrists before you shoot,” Nova said, taking the gun from him. She cleared it, then handed it back. “Let me show you one more time.”
She moved behind him again, both arms sliding around his as she guided his hands into place. “You’re not trying to overpower the shot. You’re letting it move with you. Control doesn’t mean force.”
She was close enough that he could feel her breath at the back of his neck.
“This feels like flirting,” he muttered.
“It is,” she said with a smile in her voice. “Now shoot.”
He fired again. This time, it hit the center chest of the dummy.
Haesoo lowered the gun slowly. “That was better.”
“You’re improving fast,” Nova said. “One more round. Then sniper.”
He turned to her. “You’re actually going to teach me how to snipe?”
“You think I brought that rifle for decoration?” she smirked.
They moved to the elevated platform a few meters back. Nova knelt with her sniper rifle and motioned for him to do the same beside her.
“This one’s all about breath control and patience,” she said. “You don’t fire unless you know where it’s landing.”
He watched as she loaded a single round and positioned herself. Without a word, she inhaled… exhaled slowly… then pulled the trigger. A second later, a target dummy’s head in the far corner exploded with bright orange paint.
“Now you.”
Haesoo took position, mimicking her stance. She adjusted his shoulder again and slid the rifle closer to his eye line.
“You’ll feel the difference between a pistol and this one,” she warned. “Keep your face back just enough so the scope doesn’t hit you.”
“I trust you,” he said without looking.
She leaned in and whispered near his ear, “Then don’t make me regret it.”
Haesoo fired and missed.
“Too fast,” she said. “You rushed it.”
“I got excited.”
“Then try again,” she said, loading another round.
This time, Haesoo took his time, exhaled, then squeezed the trigger.
The round struck the target’s neck.
Nova clapped once. “That’s progress.”
“Does that mean I graduate?”
“No,” she said, smirking. “But you’ll live if someone ever hands you a gun.”
He looked at her. “You’d be the one handing it to me.”
She didn’t deny it.
Haesoo was still catching his breath from the last shot when Nova rose from her crouch. She didn’t say a word.
With one smooth motion, she pulled a pistol from her holster, stepped forward, and without even fully turning her head, raised her arm.
Pop. Pop. Pop. Pop. Pop. Pop. Pop.
One after another, the dummies around the range collapsed with paint splattered across their foreheads each shot a perfect mark between the eyes.
Haesoo stared, speechless. Her eyes hadn’t even been on the targets — she’d fired using only her peripheral vision.
Nova blew lightly across the top of the pistol, twirled it around her finger, and holstered it with an audible click.
Then, finally, she glanced his way. “Told you I flirt differently.”
Haesoo blinked. “You’re insane.”
“You like it.”
He tried not to smile, but failed.
Haesoo was still frozen in place, jaw slightly slack as he looked at the paint-splattered dummies she had taken out without breaking a sweat.
Nova stepped closer, her body brushing lightly against his side as she leaned in close enough that her breath tickled his ear.
With a smirk in her voice, she whispered,
“What… did that turn you on?”
Before he could react, she was already walking away hips swaying casually, her helmet tucked under one arm, the pistol still holstered at her side like it was just another accessory.
Haesoo stared after her, a hand dragging down his face as he muttered, “She’s going to kill me one day.”
And yet… he followed her anyway.
Nova didn’t look back, but she knew he was following. She could hear the soft crunch of gravel beneath his boots, could feel the heat of his stare still clinging to her even after her whisper had long passed.
They walked in silence through the winding path leading back to the suite. The private hotel was quiet, tucked deep in the wilderness of California, where no one could bother them. As they reached their door, Nova punched in the code, then pushed it open and stepped aside to let him in.
Haesoo walked past her, the tension still lingering in the air. He dropped the helmet on the small table near the entrance while Nova unstrapped her gear with practiced ease.
She glanced over her shoulder. “You good?”
He was leaning against the armrest of the couch now, arms crossed, watching her. “You’re really something else, you know that?”
She gave a lazy smile, tossing her gloves onto the bed. “You say that like it’s a surprise.”
“No. Just… never gets old.”
She disappeared into the closet and came out moments later in one of her oversized T-shirts, tugging it down over her bare legs.
“We still have a few hours before dinner,” she said, flopping back onto the bed, hair slightly tousled now. “You want to shower first or should I?”
He kicked off his shoes. “You go first.”
Nova stretched her arms above her head, then sat up slowly. “Try not to stare this time,” she teased, grabbing her towel from the chair.
“I make no promises,” Haesoo said without missing a beat.
She disappeared into the bathroom, the sound of the shower starting soon after. Haesoo sat in the quiet for a moment, rubbing his hand across his face.
He didn’t know what was happening more often these days falling in love with her, or being completely thrown off by her every move.
Maybe both.
By the time Haesoo stepped out of the shower, towel drying his hair and fully dressed, the room was quiet the kind of quiet that made him smile.
Nova was fast asleep.
She hadn’t even made it under the covers, just curled up in the center of the bed, her cargo pants slightly wrinkled, one hand tucked under her cheek. Her lips were parted slightly, and her breathing was steady. Peaceful. Vulnerable, in a way she rarely let anyone see.
Haesoo watched her for a moment before walking over quietly. He knelt beside the bed and gently brushed her hair back from her face.
“Nova,” he whispered softly.
She didn’t move.
He leaned in, pressing a light kiss to her temple, then touched her shoulder. “Hey. Wake up, sleepyhead.”
She stirred, brow furrowing. “Mmm… I told you to wake me up for dinner…”
“I’m doing my job,” he said with a soft chuckle. “Come on. You need real food.”
Nova groaned and rolled onto her back, blinking up at him slowly. Her voice was scratchy with sleep. “Five more minutes.”
Haesoo smiled and reached down to squeeze her hand. “You can sleep after you eat something that isn’t raw ramen.”
That made her crack a sleepy grin. “Fine… but you’re carrying me.”
He laughed. “Let’s get you fed first. Then we’ll negotiate the princess treatment.”
Nova and Haesoo walked through the quiet halls of the hotel, the low hum of music and conversation growing louder as they approached the restaurant. The space was modern but warm, with soft lighting and wide windows that overlooked the moonlit hills beyond the arena.
Her friends were already seated at a long table near the back, drinks in hand, laughing over something Mateo had just said. They looked up the moment Nova and Haesoo arrived.
“Took you long enough,” Camila teased, waving them over. “We were about to order for you.”
Nova just raised a brow. “Then we’d be eating salads and disappointment.”
Haesoo held back a smile as they sat beside each other. A waiter approached, and without hesitation, Nova ordered for both of them. “Two medium-rare steaks. With grilled vegetables. No butter. And sparkling water.”
Mateo clapped a hand to his chest. “Still the same. Orders like a CEO.”
“Because I am one,” she replied coolly, sipping the water already poured at the table.
When the food arrived, the plates were steaming thick, juicy steaks cooked perfectly, colorful veggies nestled beside them. Nova didn’t hesitate. She sliced her steak, took a bite, and hummed low in her throat.
“Okay,” she mumbled with her mouth half-full. “This is real food.”
Haesoo chuckled and started on his own meal, quietly glancing her way from time to time. She was eating slowly but steadily, more than he’d seen her eat in days.
Her friends looked on with amused satisfaction.
“She’s been starving herself again, hasn’t she?” Rina said under her breath, only loud enough for Haesoo to hear.
“She’s been working non-stop,” he replied, his voice quiet but firm. “She’s taking a break now.”
Nova didn’t catch the exchange, too focused on the steak in front of her. For the first time in weeks, she looked like someone finally letting herself breathe.
The waiter returned, clearing their plates and placing an elegant tray of desserts in the center of the table. It was an indulgent spread: chocolate lava cake with vanilla bean ice cream, crème brûlée with caramelized sugar, a tall strawberry parfait layered with whipped cream, and a plate of assorted mini cheesecakes.
Nova didn’t even hesitate. She reached straight for the lava cake, scooping a bit of the gooey center and ice cream onto her spoon. Haesoo made a face beside her.
“You don’t like sweets,” she said, already holding the spoon up to his mouth.
“I don’t,” he replied, lips curled in faint protest. “You know that.”
“You’re eating it anyway,” Nova said simply, eyes unwavering.
The others watched with amusement as Haesoo sighed dramatically and leaned in, letting her feed him. His expression twisted the second the sugar hit his tongue, and he grimaced.
“You act like I poisoned you,” she laughed, eating a spoonful herself. “It’s chocolate, not cyanide.”
“It’s too sweet,” he muttered, chasing it with a sip of water while everyone laughed.
“Soft,” Tae teased.
Min leaned forward. “He’ll survive a spoon of sugar. But let’s be honest Nova could make him eat raw wasabi, and he wouldn’t say no.”
Nova smirked, reaching for another spoonful. “He’d complain the whole time, though.”
Haesoo gave her a look, but his lips twitched into a smile.
As she fed him a second bite, this time from the crème brûlée, he accepted it without protest.
“I don’t like sweets,” he said again, softer now, “but you’re the exception.”
Nova blinked, her gaze locking on his for a heartbeat longer than expected. Her smirk softened into something gentler, more real.
“Good,” she said quietly. “Because I don’t like sharing dessert.”
The moment passed as the rest of the table erupted into dramatic fake gagging and applause.
Mateo held up his water glass. “To power couple sugar overload.”
Everyone clinked glasses with laughter echoing through the hotel restaurant.
Dinner eventually came to a close, the table scattered with empty plates and quiet conversation. As everyone stood to head to their rooms, Nova nudged Haesoo lightly.
“You go ahead. I’ll catch up.”
He gave her a look. “Where are you going?”
“Just need a minute,” she replied, already walking off with a lazy wave. “Go shower or something.”
Haesoo didn’t press further he’d learned when not to and turned toward the suite.
Outside, the night was vast and still. No city lights. No sound but the soft breeze pushing through dry grass. Nova walked past the edge of the hotel, her boots crunching over dirt, until all she could see was open land and sky. The silence stretched wide, and she stood in it for a moment, breathing.
It was the kind of quiet that reminded her she was alive.
A soft sound caught her attention. Nova turned toward it instinctively, sharp and alert then paused.
A tiny kitten, no bigger than her forearm, was crouched near a rock, meowing faintly as it pawed at a twig. Dirty fur, too thin, wild eyes.
Nova knelt slowly. The kitten didn’t run.
She extended her fingers, and the kitten crept forward, sniffed her hand, then rubbed against it. It let out a raspy purr.
“You poor thing,” she murmured.
She gently scooped it up and stood, holding it close. Its tiny body was trembling, but it didn’t resist.
Footsteps sounded behind her. She didn’t turn.
“I knew you weren’t just taking a walk,” Haesoo’s voice came, quiet and teasing.
Nova shifted slightly, glancing back at him. “Found this little thing. It’s been out here alone.”
“You’re not going to bring it back to Korea, are you?” he asked, stepping beside her.
Nova let out a soft laugh. “Please. My life doesn’t have space for pets.”
She looked down at the kitten, brushing its fur back from its eyes.
“I’ll give it to the staff. Someone here will take care of it. It doesn’t deserve to be left out here.”
Haesoo watched her for a moment.
“You act cold, but you’re not,” he said.
Nova shrugged. “I’m practical. That’s different.”
Still, she held the kitten protectively as they walked back to the hotel together. Before heading upstairs, she stopped at the front desk and gently passed the kitten to a staff member, murmuring a few words and slipping something into their hand likely money. Just to make sure.
When she returned to Haesoo’s side, she dusted off her hands like it had never happened.
“Let’s go,” she said simply.
And they disappeared into the quiet hallway.
Back in the suite, Haesoo shut the door behind them while Nova kicked off her shoes and dropped onto the couch. She grabbed the throw blanket and tossed it over her legs, lounging like she had no responsibilities in the world.
“You’re the obsessive type,” she said, glancing at him with a teasing glint in her eyes. “I wasn’t even gone that long. I was relaxing. With a kitten.”
Haesoo raised a brow, unbothered. “You disappeared without saying anything. That’s usually how people get worried.”
Nova rolled her eyes. “You knew I wasn’t in danger.”
“That’s not the point,” he said, walking over and flopping onto the couch beside her. “You disappear. I check. Basic formula.”
“I didn’t vanish. I stepped outside. Nature. Silence. Emotional cleanse.” She turned her head toward him. “You’re the one who wandered outside in your socks.”
Haesoo gave her a half-smile. “Because you didn’t answer your phone.”
“I left it charging. Can’t exactly take a call with a kitten in one hand and peace of mind in the other.”
He studied her face for a moment relaxed, tired, but calm in a way he hadn’t seen in weeks. “You really liked that kitten, huh?”
“I like things that don’t talk too much and don’t expect anything from me,” she said, stretching her arms behind her head. “It just wanted warmth.”
“And you gave it,” he said softly.
“Don’t get sentimental,” she warned, but her voice was warm. “I’m not going soft.”
Haesoo reached over and tugged the blanket higher over her legs. “No. You’re not soft,” he said. “But you’re not heartless either.”
Nova didn’t respond right away. She just stared at him for a beat, then slowly shifted, leaning her head against his shoulder.
“I know,” she murmured.
They sat like that for a moment, the suite filled only with quiet hums of the central air and the faint buzz of the outdoor wind against the windowpanes.
“You’re still obsessive, though,” she added lazily.
“And you still vanish,” he replied.
“Guess we’re even,” she said, closing her eyes.
Nova stood up from the couch, stretching lightly as she walked toward her suitcase. Without a word, she grabbed one of Haesoo’s oversized shirts one that hung nearly to her knees and slipped it on. The fabric was soft, worn in a way that felt like comfort.
She padded back to the bed, pulled down the covers, and climbed in with a tired sigh. Haesoo followed a moment later, sliding in beside her. No need for words the way she turned toward him, letting her head rest on his chest, said enough.
His arm naturally curled around her, hand smoothing along her back.
“I like it when you wear my shirts,” he mumbled, half-asleep already.
Nova didn’t reply. She just let out a soft breath, eyes already fluttering closed.
And for the first time in weeks, sleep came easily.
Sometime during the night, Nova shifted in her sleep, turning to her other side.
Without even waking, Haesoo followed his body moving instinctively, arm draping over her waist again, pulling her close. Wherever she turned, he turned with her, as if some unconscious part of him refused to be apart from her, even in sleep.
Nova stirred faintly at the warmth pressed against her back, but didn’t wake. She didn’t need to. With him right there, everything in her body finally allowed itself to rest.
