Chapter One
-Chapter One-
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For the Lost Boys who grew up in the glare of the flashbulbs and the ones who vanished in the shadows.
In memory of Corey Haim and River Phoenix. And for Corey Feldman—who kept telling the truth even when the world stopped listening.
This is the second chance you all deserved.
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The glitz of Hollywood
The ballroom
October 12th
The glitz of the ballroom is reminiscent of the golden age of Hollywood. Sadly, most of the people attending don't seem to receive the memo, judging by their chosen attire, an ugly contrast to the classic glamour of the decor. The live band falls silent ten minutes ago, giving way to songs being played from a sound system that echoes from hidden speakers.
Isaac stands near the bar, when he should be at his parents' house in Thousand Oaks, celebrating his father Samuel Wolfowitz's birthday, yet here he is, surrounded by people who used to be part of his social circle, forcing a polite smile as one of Eva’s best friends, Jennifer Stranton, the daughter of a famous director, keeps talking, despite hogging the conversation for the last fifteen minutes. She is accompanied by former child actor, Roy Barker-Parker, son of a famous actor, and two other women standing close, the 'it girl' actress of the moment, and another, a model turned actress who used to date the producer of Isaac’s last series.
“I heard about the health thing,” Jennifer says gently, swirling the drink in her hand. “That must be… so complicated for you, Isaac.” She sips her drink, her eyes locked on Isaac.
“Especially at this stage of life. A lot of women start thinking about families. It's so, so tragic. I feel really bad for you, Isaac.”
One of the women adds, sighing for added drama. Jennifer and Roy laugh softly, agreeing with her.
"I suppose that little detail levels you down, man, it's such a pity because you're still good looking," Roy, smirks, still acting like he is the fourteen-year-old star of the 'Arcaders' rather than the forty-something has-been standing at the bar. A few people nearby hear the conversation and quickly look away, suddenly fascinated by their drinks.
Jennifer speaks again, her venom subtle but Isaac has grown to detect these things.
"It's so brave how you keep showing up to these things even though you haven't booked a lead in years."
Isaac chuckles too, the sound hollow to anyone who knows him well. Years in the industry have taught him how to smile through humiliation.
"Never lose hope. That's what my grandma always says."
His mind is already planning his escape, looking around for escape routes, reviewing possible excuses, trying to find Jake Winters or Andrew McGowan, former child stars that have starred in many movies with him and who have steadily become two of his best friends despite the age differences.
"So you're really not seeing anyone?" He hears Jennifer's voice as he tries to remember if Andrew is wearing a navy suit or a black suit. "Robbie from TMZ said you were spotted with a mysterious blonde."
Isaac tries to scan the room again for Andrew’s navy suit, but his gaze snags on a massive, oversized potted palm near the VIP exit. The fronds are shaking
rhythmically. For a second, he thinks it's the air conditioning, until he sees
a flash of black silk and a pair of onyx eyes peeking through the leaves.
It's Raven, the k-pop idol who's been cast with him in the American version of Squid Game.
She isn't "performing" for anyone. She's hunched over, clutching her skirts,
watching Russell Burke—who's currently scanning the room with the predatory
focus of a vulture—strutting in the opposite direction.
She looks less like a global icon and more like a high schooler trying to dodge
The annoying jock in the cafeteria.
Then, her eyes find Isaac.
The "mission" look vanishes instantly, replaced by that wide-eyed,
heart-stuttering recognition he’d seen during the awards ceremony two hours
before. She'd spent the whole show making him laugh with whispered commentary about the "cardboard" presenters, her wit as sharp as his own.
She sees Jennifer lean in to deliver another venomous line about Isaac's career.
He sees Raven’s jaw set. She takes a deep, shaky breath, straightens her skirts, fixes the hairpins on her silky black hair, and steps out from behind the plant like a soldier leaving a trench.
For a brief second he feels relief — but it quickly twists into suspicion.
What if Raven is waving at Roy, at them? They notice her too. None of them wave back.
Great, he thinks. Another spectator. Isaac forces a smile.
“Oh, hello there, sweetheart,” he says lightly, hoping she didn’t hear the conversation. “Are you lost?”
Raven steps closer, bowing politely at him before kissing his cheek without hesitation. The women fall silent, mid taunt.
“Nope, not lost at all, oppa,” There's a strange aura about her, bright, too bright but welcoming.
Raven ignores the group beside him, focusing only on Isaac. When she notices the tension in his shoulders, she discreetly rubs his arm.
“I was looking for you, actually.”
Isaac is perplexed.
Raven smiles conspiratorially, straightening his bowtie.
“You promised to dance with me.”
Isaac freezes, because he definitely does not remember making that promise, not here and not when they were seated at the awards show ceremony two hours before. For a moment he studies her face, trying to understand what game she's playing. But then he notices something in her expression — a quiet firmness, like someone holding a door open for him. Then he truly sees it. The quiet determination in her expression.
An exit.
Behind her, the women and Roy exchange annoyed looks. Roy scoffs. Raven acts as if they're not even there, treating them like one treats old furniture.
The tension in his shoulders shifts slightly — not gone, but surprised.
“You heard that, didn’t you,” he murmurs.
She shrugs.
“Hard not to. They’re projecting loud enough to qualify as surround sound.”
She extends her hand with a crooked grin.
“Come on. Want to help me escape a terrible conversation with an equally terrible someone?”
Isaac’s eyebrow shoots up. Her words surprise him.
“You too?”
Raven lets out a sigh, then she nods solemnly.
“Always.”
There's a brief silence between them, then he laughs — a real one this time. He exhales softly and takes her hand.
“Alright,” The champagne flute is left behind, discarded on the bar. “Mutual escape pact.”
The first chords of Whitney Houston's "Where Do Broken Hearts Go", start playing across the ballroom. It feels like irony. Raven taps her ear with a small grin.
“This song is a must-dance for me,” she holds out her hand.
“May I have this dance, oppa?” Her voice is loud enough so that Isaac's tormentors can hear.
A deliberate move on her part. She understands where he's coming from, she knows how people move in the industry. As the least popular member of her idol group, Raven not only understands Isaac's struggle, she lives it, day in and day out, online and in real life, and, like him, there's rarely any decent human being outside of her group members who stands up for her in social situations.
"Come on, oppa, we don't wanna miss the song."
A genuine smile begins to form on his face. He has never been asked to dance before. For a brief second, Isaac is hesitant. Not because he doubts her—but because her hand is warm, grounding in his, and the simple gesture feels strangely intimate for someone he met only a couple of weeks before. Then he lets out a quiet breath and squeezes her hand lightly, because he finally understands. She's not mocking him. She's helping him.
“Of course.”
He lets her lead him away from the bar before the women can get the chance to say another word. As they walk toward the dance floor, Isaac glances at her curiously.
“You’re very convincing,” his voice is a murmur.
Raven leans closer, whispering just loud enough for him to hear.
“I never said when you promised.”
Isaac lets out a quiet laugh — his mood getting better.
They find a clearing in the middle of the dance floor. The soft golden lights of the ballroom glow warmly overhead. The dark purple curtains and golden tapestries echo the colors of her accessories. Golden hairpins with purple flowers. Golden jewelry with amethysts. His right hand is placed gently at her waist. For a moment neither of them moves. The music swells around them as they both seem to notice the same thing at once—the sudden closeness.
"It's ok, oppa, I got you."
Then Raven smiles slightly and the dance begins. The dance floor is packed with real couples. Laughter and chatter come and go. At first, he's a little rusty. But within moments, the rhythm returns to him, limbs lose tension, hips remember how to move, spine relaxing. Isaac realizes two things at once.
First: he hasn’t danced in years. Not even with Eva, his ex fiancée, who loves parties but rarely lets him take her to the dance floor, opting for a conversation with the high-ranking guests, as if networking is more important to her than sharing an intimate moment with him.
Second: Raven is definitely leading. That's a first. It doesn't feel odd, though. He glances down at their feet.
“You’re steering.”
She grins.
“You were hesitating.”
“I was evaluating the situation.”
“You were overthinking.”
“Ok, I won't lie, that too.”
The song changes to one Isaac doesn't recognize. Mid-tempo, 80s ballad definitely.
“You’re steering again.”
“You’re welcome.”
“I didn’t say thank you.”
“You were thinking about it.”
For the first time tonight, Isaac feels something unfamiliar creeping in. Not relief. Genuine curiosity. As the two of them sway together, Isaac finds himself studying her—really watching her.
The soft light catches in her black hair. Pulled back into a high bun, accentuated by floral hairpins. Her monolid eyes sparkle with the quiet mischief of youth, almost as black as onyx, like a calm night sky. The peach color on her cheeks gives her an extra youthful glow that contrasts with her modest and old-fashioned black ballgown. He catches the faint scent of cherry blossom when she moves closer.
For a brief moment, the rest of the world fades away.
As they sway, Isaac reaches up. “You have a piece of… I think it’s a fern?”
Raven’s face turns the color of a ripe cherry. She squeezes his hand, her eyes
darting back toward the palm tree. “It was a tactical retreat, Oppa. Russell has
the conversational range of a chicken pea and the persistence of a fruit fly. Don’t judge my methods.”
Isaac chuckles, the tension finally leaving his neck. “I’m not judging. I was
about five seconds away from hiding in the shrimp tower myself.”
Behind them, Roy and the women who were just mocking him stare in stunned silence. Raven lets go of Isaac's left hand, wrapping her arms loosely around his neck as they sway to the music.
"I'm not even going to ask how you're doing, oppa," She murmurs softly.
"After hearing those harpies, I'm pretty sure the answer is 'not great'".
Her gaze flickers briefly toward them before returning to him.
She pulls him a little closer, making her intentions very clear to Roy and the women.
"I hope you know I don't care about them or anything they have to say."
Her expression softens. Isaac glances briefly toward the women still watching them.
“For the record,” Her voice is quiet but warm, “they sound like people who peaked in high school.”
Isaac snorts, the corners of his eyes crinkle.
“That might be the most accurate thing anyone’s said tonight.”
Her head tilts, her eyes still on him.
“You handled it better than I would’ve, though.”
Isaac thinks for a moment, then he shrugs. “Years of practice.”
She squints at him.
“No. That’s not practice.”
“What is it then?”
“Avoidance.”
He raises an eyebrow, a quirk of his.
“What would you have done?”
She thinks about it.
“Probably something that would get me banned from award shows… and maybe sent to jail.”
That earns another laugh from him. The mood shifts again — lighter now. Few people ever acknowledge the rumors directly—let alone stand by him so openly. But somehow, this young woman sees right through the situation. Through the gossip. Through the cruelty. A warmth akin to gratitude spreads through his chest.
"You’re right," he admits quietly.
His voice carries a rough edge of emotion that she catches but doesn't vocally acknowledge to spare him the embarrassment.
"And we don't want such a fine dance partner to be banned from awards shows or the after parties, do we? And we definitely don't want you going to jail, young lady."
He gives her a little twirl, before resuming the slow dance as the music continues to play, to which she responds with a surprise gasp, quickly followed by a giggle of delight.
"But… I'm really glad you're here."
His eyes twinkle with amusement. And when he smiles again, this time it feels lighter. Raven leans closer, lowering her voice just enough that only he can hear it, like a co-conspirator about to reveal confidential information.
“I swear, those women sound exactly like my comment section.”
Isaac opens his mouth, then closes it, because he doesn't know what to say. He is unaware of Raven's constant online bullying or how others treat her.
"Just remember something, oppa."
Her voice drops into a quiet whisper, her expression is now serious.
"Not all of us believe their lies."
She casts a brief, icy glance toward the women still watching them from the sidelines. Roy Barker-Parker is no longer with them.
"And not all of us find their words funny or laugh at their cruel jokes."
Then she turns back to him, the warmth returning to her smile.
"Anyway…"
Her gaze moves upward for a moment, then focuses on him again.
"Guess which movie was playing in my hotel room this afternoon?"
Isaac chuckles softly, the tension finally eases from his shoulders. His curiosity flickers to life.
"I have no idea," he admits, shaking his head.
"But I'm guessing it must've been a good one."
He gives her another twirl, then another, making her giggle again.
"Oh, it was."
People around the ballroom glance their way now, whispers beginning to circulate as photographers quietly start snapping pictures of the two of them laughing together. The world has blurred around them.
"It's a movie I've never seen before."
She leans in slightly.
"The one about an angel sent to earth to hunt down corrupt human souls that turned them into demons. Andrew McGowan was in it too."
Raven's grin widens. “You remember it, right?… Samael?” She takes in his expression, the sorrow in his blue eyes and that innocence that still shines in them. A spark shines in her eyes again.
Isaac nods, focused on a tiny mole under her left eye.
“I have to admit something.” Raven taps his shoulder gently with her fingers.
Isaac's eyebrow shoots up and he waits for her to continue, genuinely amused.
“I expected you to be decent.” The tapping of her fingers stops.
He nearly snorts, but the sound that escapes him is way too soft. “That’s reassuring.”
She grins, yet there's no mischief this time.
“But you were actually amazing.”
Not only do her eyes light up, her whole face does.
“You were really good in that movie.”
Isaac smiles, feeling both relief and something akin to pride.
“Thank you.”
She pauses, head shaking.
“Your blonde wig was terrible though. You looked like a Beach Barbie Ken in the 80s after being left for days near the pool... That hair was a pure nylon nightmare...”
He bursts into uncontrollable laughter, remembering the cherub style wig he wore for that movie because his mother refused to have stylists bleach his black curls.
“That wasn’t my choice!”
“Still. Stellar performance. Now I understand why South Koreans love it so much. A demon hunter that's more human than humans." Her grin has all the sincerity Isaac needs to believe her.
Isaac blushes. A genuine, boyish color rises to his cheeks. Raven doesn't tease him for it and he's grateful for that.
"Thank you, sweetheart," his voice is soft. "That really means a lot."
Out of the corner of his eye, he notices the photographers capturing the moment. Still circling them like sharks. Part of him worries about the headlines that might appear tomorrow. But another, stronger part of him doesn't care. Because right now— He's simply enjoying the moment. And he doesn't want it to end.
Raven notices him subtly trying to shield her from the cameras, angling his body just enough to block the flashes. The gesture makes her smile.
"Always the gentleman. Thank you."
She looks at him with such open admiration that his blush deepens.
A photographer captures the moment, but they barely notice. They’re back inside their own little bubble.
“I’ve made a note to look up your full filmography,” Raven notices the small constellation of freckles on his nose as she returns to their conversation. “So far I’ve only seen three movies from your child-actor era and one from your teen heart-throb era.”
She glances upward, recalling the titles.
“The Arcaders, Walk With Me, The Midnight Boys, and the one with your best dramatic performance, Toy Soldiers…”
Isaac’s eyes immediately light up, as memories flood his mind. He’s always been proud of those films, but it’s rare for someone to bring them up with genuine enthusiasm.
“I can’t believe you’ve seen all of those,” he says, clearly delighted. “Which one was your favorite?”
“I grew up watching your movies,” she notices his eye color is somewhere between the color of the Caribbean beaches and an electric shade of blue. "My dad loved the Brat Pack movies."
Isaac groans, closing his eyes at the sound of her words.
“Please don’t say that.”
“Why?”
“Because it makes me feel ancient.”
She studies him thoughtfully. The soft wrinkles of his eyes, the soft line between his eyebrows, the lines of his natural dimples. All do plenty to add character and charm to his handsome face.
“Hmm.”
Isaac tries to stay serious but he ends up grinning.
“What?”
“You’re holding up surprisingly well for an ancient relic.” Her laughter is soft but lacks any malice.
Isaac can't help but laugh along.
“The Arcaders was my favorite movie.” Images of the trademark yellow raincoats come to her.
Isaac's chest fills with pride. There's silence for a short moment.
“Although… the singing in the rain scene was ridiculous.”
He gasps in mock offense.
“That scene is iconic.”
Raven just rolls her eyes pretending to be irritated.
“You fell into a mud puddle with Jake Winters.”
Isaac gestures with his hands, but they quickly return to her waist.
“I was trying to save him, like a hero.”
Raven huffs, staying in her role of irritated fan #1, to Isaac's amusement.
"You both ended up looking like swamp things..."
Isaac erupts in laughter again. A few eyes turn towards them. It's been almost two years since anyone has seen Isaac laugh.
“But seriously, you were like adventure buddies for me and my brothers growing up,” Raven continues. “A household name. An inspiration for so many imaginary expeditions.”
She sighs softly as memories wash over her.
“We all wanted to be Arcaders—just like you and the other kid actors in the movie. We'd take turns playing every one of you so we could say all the cool lines in the movie.”
Her eyes light up at the thought. Isaac’s smile widens as he listens, pride and warmth spreading across his face. Hearing someone talk about those memories with such affection clearly means a lot to him.
“I’m really glad those movies meant that much to you,” he's genuinely grateful. “Knowing they inspired you and your brothers… that’s pretty special.”
Isaac notices how animated Raven becomes when she talks about her childhood memories, how delighted she seems to talk about the movies he starred in. The sparkle in her eyes is impossible to miss.
“We practically memorized the entire script,” she confesses with a laugh.
A loose curl falls over Isaac's forehead and without a second thought, Raven tucks it behind his ear, like it's the most natural thing to do.
The familiarity of the gesture startles her.
“Sorry…” She chuckles softly, stopping, mid-dance, blushing. Cameras are everywhere, capturing everything. Isaac freezes for a moment, his eyes widen slightly at the unexpected touch. He’s not used to such easy closeness from someone he just met—but strangely, he quickly realizes, he doesn’t mind it at all. In fact, he likes it.
“It’s okay, Raven,” he murmurs warmly when she apologizes. "I don't mind."
“But yeah—we even dressed up,” she continues, doing her best to act normal, pushing away her embarrassment. “Raincoats on sunny days, backpacks filled with trinkets we thought might 'save the day', walkie-talkies to communicate… just like you guys in The Arcaders.”
At that moment, Kenny Rogers’ “You Decorated My Life” begins playing through the speakers.
“Oh wow,” Her grin is wide. “That’s my parents’ song.”
Without thinking, Raven starts softly singing along to the chorus. Isaac listens, surprised by how good her singing voice is. Her voice is steady and melodic, almost honey-sweet, and the sound of it fills him with an unexpected warmth. For a moment he forgets about the crowd, the cameras, the noise of the party. All he notices is her, singing. They sway to the melody, comfortable with not speaking. Another 80's ballad follows. Time moves slowly for them.
“Oh my God, I love this song!” Raven suddenly exclaims when When in Rome’s “The Promise” starts playing. She grins and starts singing along again—this time more playfully, directing the performance at Isaac, gesturing as she pretends to serenade him. People nearby begin to watch, intrigued by their antics. Intrigued by the chemistry despite the obvious age gap. Somewhere online, speculation about them starts forming already, in k-pop forums, blogs, on X, on the live streams of the influencers present. When the song ends, she lets out a long sigh.
“One day I’m going to write a song as beautiful as that. You'll see.”
There’s a wistful longing in her expression, the kind that comes from believing deeply in love. A photographer approaches them, well-mannered, almost friendly.
“Would you mind posing for a photo?”
Isaac and Raven glance at each other, then nod. Isaac wraps an arm naturally around her shoulders, hand over her bare skin, not touching it, always the gentleman. When they turn toward the camera, she steps respectfully closer, with her arm around his back. The closeness feels… surprisingly right, familiar, natural. The photographer takes a few shots, then thanks them and leaves them to continue to dance. Isaac thanks the photographer, shaking his hand.
“You’re very polite,” she compliments, liking how well-mannered and open he is to a photographer despite the hell the media has put him through.
“Is that a problem?”
“A little.”
“Why?”
“It’s suspicious.”
Isaac laughs. It seems a common occurrence now, to laugh so openly, so naturally.
“Suspicious?”
Her expression is serious, almost solemn.
“Nobody that nice survives Hollywood.”
Isaac scoffs resuming the dance.
“Anyway, you’re an amazing singer,”
She's the one who raises an eyebrow next.
“Careful.”
“Why?”
“If you compliment me too much I might think you’re flirting.”
He smiles, feeling playful, almost bold.
“What makes you think I’m not?”
Suddenly Isaac's phone begins vibrating non-stop in his tuxedo jacket. The buzzing is so constant it almost sounds like a machine gun.
Raven laughs as the vibrations tickle her forearm. “Someone’s popular tonight,” she teases, lightly patting the inner pocket of Isaac's jacket where the phone is going wild. Then a sudden thought hits her.
“…Unless I’m keeping you away from a date?”
Her eyes widen slightly in mild panic, her body freezes mid-dance.
“Oh no—I’m sorry if I’ve taken up so much of your time.”
She studies his face, hoping that Isaac came to the after party with his friends and not with a date. Isaac chuckles softly. He gives her a twirl.
“It’s just my friends,” he reassures her. “They’re probably wondering where I'm at and why I’m not answering their messages. I came here with Andrew and Jake.”
He notices the nervous way she fidgets with her hands. Gently, he reaches for one of them and gives it a reassuring squeeze.
“Don’t worry,” his blue eyes lock on hers. “You’re not keeping me from anything.”
His expression becomes warmer and his gaze more tender.
“I’m really glad you came over to talk to me tonight.”
There's a small pause, their eyes still locked, everything else blurring.
“You’ve been great company this evening.”
She lets out a long, steady breath, her shoulders relaxing, then she nods.
“I was actually on my way back from the bathroom, where I hid from Russell Burke... He was annoying me,” she explains and the look of disgust tells Isaac all he needs to know of the opinion she has of Russell. “I’d stopped to fix the hairpins in my hair when I overheard the D-listers ganging up on you.”
Raven frowns again, shaking her head with a quiet sigh.
“I’m really glad I was there when that nasty situation was taking place. I've been there before. It sucks to be ambushed like that and see that nobody does the right thing."
Then her expression brightens and she flashes him a wide grin.
“Plus, it gave me the perfect excuse to talk to my favorite future co-star.”
Without thinking, she tucks that same rebellious curl behind Isaac's ear again. Just then, one of Director Hwang’s production assistants approaches them.
“Excuse me… Mr. Wolfowitz? Raven-ssi? Director Hwang would like to speak with the both of you. If you could follow me, please.”
“Oh?” Raven glances at Isaac, feeling both surprise and apprehension.
Before they can say anything else, the assistant is already walking away from the dance floor. Isaac smiles and offers her his arm.
“Well… let’s go see what he wants.”
She takes his arm, smiling and nodding.
“Okay, let's go.”
☆☆☆
The producers table
She lets him guide her across the room, right behind the assistant. There are whispers as they walk by, long stares, a few flashes, but neither of them stop looking ahead, at Producer Park and Director Hwang, seated at the center of a round table.
“He says Director Hwang wants to talk to the both of us.”
A sudden wave of anxiety hits her. Her thumb darts to her mouth, nibbling and sucking the fingertip gently. She glances at Isaac nervously.
“Hope we're not in trouble,” she whispers under her breath as they approach a private table where Producer Park, Director Hwang, a distribution executive, two members of the production legal counsel and the two main screenwriters, Writer Kwon and Writer Hong are seated, chatting loudly.
“Oh-oh…”
Raven looks at Isaac, suddenly worried they might be in serious trouble. But Director Hwang waves them over warmly.
“Relax,” he says with a grin. “You’re not in trouble.”
He leans back in his chair.
“You two are the talk of the town tonight.”
Isaac and Raven exchange a confused glance. Director Hwang takes a sip of champagne.
“Your chemistry is all everyone is talking about at the moment,” he continues. “Of course that was already established during the pre-cast readings, but people outside of production are noticing it more tonight.”
Isaac looks around discreetly. His nails dig into his palms when he notices eyes on them, murmuring, pointing. He feels like a specimen in a jar sitting on the shelf of a freak show exhibit.
Writer Kwon nods enthusiastically, oblivious to Isaac’s predicament.
“So we’ve decided to rewrite several scenes for your characters. We want that chemistry you have to shine on screen.”
Isaac’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. Translation: We're cashing in on the chemistry.
“Wait… really?”
His heart starts pounding with a combination of excitement and anxiety. Excitement at the idea of getting more scenes in the series which translates to more financial stability. Anxiety at the possibility that the writers might want to turn his chemistry into something inappropriate. He glances at Raven to see her reaction. She looks both startled and confused. She’s a nice and funny girl but it’s obvious that she’s much younger than him, hardly twenty if he’s to guess, and so, not a proper age to pair her romantically with a man his age. Director Hwang just nods.
“Well... If you're sure about it...”
Isaac's gaze is fixed on Director Hwang.
“Thank you very much.”
He bows politely and pats his heart to show gratitude.
Director Hwang smiles, appreciating both the display of gratitude and Isaac's good manners. The explanation continues. Seats are arranged so Isaac and Raven can sit down.
“Originally, your characters were only meant to interact occasionally this season,” he takes another sip of champagne, his eyes moving from Isaac to Raven. “But after seeing the chemistry between you two before and how tonight it has exploded tenfold… we’d be foolish not to use it.”
Writer Kwon chuckles, and the second writer adds.
“Don’t worry—it won’t be a romantic or sensual relationship.”
Writer Hong waves his hand casually. He pops a chocolate truffle into his mouth before speaking again.
“But we want that strong chemistry you two naturally have. That spark. That magic. But make it a dynamic duo sort of bond.. The data from the screen tests shows a massive spike in engagement when you two are in the frame together. We're leaning into that."
He smiles knowingly, giving both a wink that makes them shudder.
“The same one we all saw during the pre-cast readings, where you interacted as if you've known each other for years, and the same one that has everyone here whispering about after watching the both of you chatting and laughing on the dance floor.”
Producer Park's voice is deep, deeper than Isaac's, a long finger pointing at both of them. Isaac and Raven exchange glances instantly.
A spark? Isaac thinks, mortified, glancing again at Raven, more discreetly this time before quickly looking away, wondering if they forgot about the age gap between them. Producer Park keeps talking, clearly confident, clearly unaware of the slight discomfort this is causing.
“You two are already trending online or so I was told.. Number three trending topic for the past hour, right after Jake Winters and Ava Cohen and the series.”
Director Hwang's assistant taps on a tablet, and the trending topics appear on screen. Isaac notices Raven's thumb back in her mouth, worrying the fingertip as his own nails scratch his palm to soothe his increasing anxiety.
The idea clearly thrills him because it’s an opportunity to show off his acting skills in a drama series—Yet there's an underlying and very heavy sense of dread, mostly, due to the age difference. She's clearly young, perhaps late teens, twenty at most and he's nearing his forties.
“I think it’s a brilliant idea,” Writer Kwon tells Director Hwang, raising his flute of champagne. Director Hwang clinks his glass. “A Batman and girl Robin kind of duo.”
Isaac glances at Raven, his expression gentler now, voice soft.
“Are you comfortable with it?”
Raven looks uncertain but she still nods gently.
"What do you think, Raven-ssi?"
Producer Park's eyes are locked on her. Everyone suddenly looks at Raven.
Great.
Whenever she gets nervous, Raven defaults to humor.
“Well…” Her answer is slow, “336 and 337 makes it sound like you already had ulterior motives all along, Producer-nim.”
The table erupts in laughter. She's referring to their Squid Game America player numbers. Isaac is 336. Raven 337. Producer Park chuckles, clapping, satisfied with the answer.
“An interesting fact is that you both share the same zodiac sign.” His gaze never loses that eagle-like quality that gives him a predatory look. Isaac shudders.
Writer Kwon chimes in.
“You’re both Gemini, according to the chart that was created by Writer Choi ssi herself.”
Isaac remembers hearing something about this when he was filming Samael in Seoul several years back. Chinese zodiac signs and blood type are a strong part of a character's personality traits.
“I noticed the way you both seem to communicate with just a look. As if you share some sort of mental wavelength…”
Isaac's feeling of dread intensifies. He isn't expecting something like this to be brought up.
Producer Park checks something on the tablet before speaking again.
“I believe you two are the right actors to give life to Player 336 and Player 337.”
Isaac laughs in disbelief. Not expecting such deep investigation into the actors’ personality traits and comparing said information with that of the other cast members. Isaac can't understand the fascination with zodiac signs when he’s played such diverse characters since he was three years old. The same can be said about Jake Winters.
“I didn’t think zodiac signs would be a big part of the characters’ background. Do their signs impact their actions and reactions?”
Nobody answers his question. Raven snaps out of her momentary daze, turning towards Isaac, her thumb no longer in her mouth.
“Wait—you’re a Gemini, Sunbaenim?” Raven’s head tilts, her black eyes narrowing in mock scrutiny. “I would’ve bet good money and my contract you were a Scorpio. You know, the whole ‘brooding mystery’ thing.”
Isaac lets out a dry chuckle. “A Scorpio? What?”
“Well, at least I didn’t say Virgo,” she says, shuddering playfully. “They’re the viper-hyenas of the zodiac.”
Isaac freezes for a second, a wry smile tugging at his lips. “Tell me about it. My ex is a Virgo.”
Raven gasps, her eyes widening. “Who's your ex again?"
Isaac's voice is quiet. "Eva..."
"Eva who? The one who followed the snake, stole the apple, and doomed humanity? That Eva?”
Isaac snorts and despite himself, he laughs.
“Unfortunately, not that one. Minus the garden, plus a lot of lawsuits. And the fact this Eva is actually the snake…”
Raven giggles at his answer.
“Eva Stone,” Writer Hong interjects, looking amused. “The popular actress who’s the daughter of legendary director Richard Stone and actress Hettie Stone.”
“Oh, the nepo baby who thinks she's Katharine Hepburn good but is actually Katherine Heigl mediocre?” Raven lets out a long, theatrical sigh, leaning back in her chair. “Stone. Well, the name is certainly fitting for her heart, isn't it? I suppose even a fine mensch like you must have one tragic flaw.”
She rolls her eyes so dramatically that the entire table erupts in laughter. For the first time that night, the weight on Isaac’s chest didn’t just feel lighter—it feels gone.
"I have one question, Raven-ssi," Writer Kwon offers one of those smiles that intend to be friendly but have a bit of an edge. "Weren't you dating Big Russ?"
"Who?" Raven looks genuinely confused.
"The guy cast as player 404... Russell Burke." Writer Kwon's smile doesn't fade.
"Oh, the loud and annoying tool? If so, then the answer is no, Writer-nim."
"May I ask why not? I know he's half Chinese, just like you." Writer Hong is the one asking the questions now.
"Because I have standards, Writer-nim."
Everyone laughs. Producer Park keeps his composure, focused on their reaction. Everything feels oddly like an episode of The Twilight Zone. Producer Park takes his flute of champagne, eyes on Isaac and Raven.
“Well… you two clearly have to celebrate together now.”
Producer Park grins, taking a sip of champagne. That grin, all pearly white teeth and poise is unnerving and Isaac knows Raven feels the same by how she leans away from the table and towards him. He squeezes her elbow to reassure her.
“What do you say, would you like me to throw a birthday bash for the two of you this summer?”
“Yes please!” Raven blurts out instantly. Any sense of dread dissipating at the thought of celebrating a birthday with Isaac. Standing up abruptly, clapping her hands together, visibly excited. Everyone chuckles. Then she suddenly remembers she's surrounded by people.
“Oh-oh…” Raven covers her mouth with both hands, blushing before bowing to apologize. "I'm sorry, Producer-nim, Director-nim, Writer-nim Kwon, Writer-nim Hong, Legal team-nims!" Raven bows again. And again.
“It would be excellent PR to have them celebrate their birthday together.”
Director Hwang grins brightly. His grin is wide and disturbing, like the Cheshire cat's. Raven sits down slowly, suddenly unnerved.
“Let’s throw an Arcaders-themed birthday bash in Hawaii for the both of them, hyung. Raven-ssi would love to visit her hometown and her parents, I’m sure.”
Director Hwang looks at Producer Park, who hasn't stopped studying Isaac and Raven.
“What do you say, Isaac-ssi, Raven-ssi? A birthday party at my Honolulu mansion this coming June? I already proposed a birthday party in my hot springs villa in Japan for Hyun-Sik here and Reo-Wook for April.”
A finger points at Director Hwang and Writer Hong. The table raises their glasses in approval. Isaac smiles, but for the third time something flickers behind it. For a brief moment doubt creeps into his mind. Everything feels almost too perfect. Too carefully arranged. Too coincidental. He pushes the thought aside, not wanting to ruin what is a good opportunity for his career.
“I think it’s a fun idea,” he says, forcing enthusiasm. “Let’s do it.”
But the tension settling in his shoulders doesn’t go completely unnoticed by Raven. A few minutes later, Jake Winters—one of Isaac’s longtime friends and fellow child actor from The Arcaders and member of The Brat Pack—is brought over to the table alongside actress Ava Cohen, by the same assistant. Both cast members of Squid Game America.
"Good evening."
Jake greets, stopping a couple of feet from the table. Isaac immediately notices something unusual. Jake Winters is infamous for his playboy reputation and fear of commitment.
But tonight?
He’s hovering near Ava like a lovestruck teenager, keeping his distance, being attentive to her. Director Hwang wastes no time, giving them the same speech about their chemistry and how the writers want to explore it in the series. Jake glances toward Isaac, clearly embarrassed that his feelings for Ava are so obvious. Isaac simply nods and mouths silently:
I get you.
Jake relaxes immediately, his smile returning. Director Hwang clarifies the dynamic he wants, fingers tapping on the tablet.
“For Jake and Ava’s characters, we want something shy, with a slow burn dynamic. Almost fated. Sincere.”
Then he gestures toward Isaac and Raven without looking at them, eyes fixed on the information displayed on the screen.
“But for you two… something quirky and playful. Sweet. Innocent. Genuine. Closer to a mentor and pupil dynamic.”
He pauses thoughtfully.
“No vulgar sexual tension.”
His eyes move to Isaac, sharp, looking over his metal-rimmed glasses.
“Even if you look younger than your actual age, Isaac-ssi, there’s a considerable age gap between you two that will reflect in your characters. I want the connection to feel sincere but wholesome.”
Then Director Hwang drops another surprise. One that makes both Jake and Isaac light up.
“We’re discussing with both Reo-Wook-ssi, Shin-Hye-ssi and Jae-Jun-ssi, a possible change to Isaac-ssi’s and Jake-ssi’s characters’ backstories, to add a bit of nostalgia.”
Instead of a washed-up movie director and a ruined former car racer…
“You’ll now be playing the role of former members of a fictional 90s boy band called Neon Beat.” He looks up, first at Jake, then at Isaac. “Catchy name, huh? I think the player numbers will be the same, 347 for Jake-ssi and 336 for Isaac-ssi.”
Jake nearly jumps out of his chair. But Director Hwang isn’t finished.
“We’ll let you in on a little secret.” Director Hwang makes a pause to add to the suspense. “And with four of our main cast hopefuls cancelling at the last minute, we’re discussing changes in the cast,” his eyes give a knowing look to Producer Park, “Hyung here, is considering casting the rest of The Brat Pack to complete the fictional 90s boy band.”
Producer Park’s eyes look at Raven, then move to Jake, Isaac and Ava.
"It would make more sense to include the rest of the Brat Pack since all six of you work as a well oiled machine already, than to hire new cast members, do new chemistry reads and delay filming schedules. Plus, it could round up our aim for nostalgia."
Writer Kwon speaks next.
“With the exception of Sebastian Hughes and Regina Bell, it’s nearly the original Arcaders cast. And with the exception of Roy Barker-Parker, the whole Brat Pack. So a toast to greater possibilities?”
Everyone raises their flute of champagne. The possibility hangs in the air. A dream-come-true Arcaders/ Brat Pack reunion for them. Isaac can barely contain his grin. His eyes lock on Jake's. Jake is already beaming, vibrating like a golden retriever puppy. They’ve lived entire lifetimes together in Hollywood—from beloved child stars… to teen idols… to struggling adults trying to find their place again in this unforgiving town.
And now?
They might get one more adventure together. A new chance to shine and show Hollywood they still have it in them to give life to their characters and own them. All six of them. Isaac glances at Raven, his eyes bright with excitement. He can’t wait to share this experience with her, with Ava, and his long-time best friends.
Soon the karaoke portion of the after-party begins. Director Hwang and Producer Park dismiss the actors so they can all rush toward the karaoke stage to sing their hearts out.
One of Isaac’s ex childhood friends tries to approach the table. Writers Kwon and Hong, the last to leave the table, pretend not to notice the actress, former child star and Arcaders cast member, Regina Bell. Isaac, Raven, Jake, and Ava do the same. Jake and Ava excuse themselves to head to the balcony that overlooks the city. Raven tugs lightly at Isaac’s lapels.
“I heard the garden at this venue is like a little museum trapped in a labyrinth.”
She jerks her head toward the open wrought-iron doors leading outside.
“Want to check it out, oppa?”
☆☆☆
The magical garden
The noise of the party fades behind them as Isaac and Raven step through the wrought-iron doors leading into the gardens.
Pink and grey marble steps descend into a quiet path framed by tall hedges and ancient cedars. Lantern light glows softly along the walkway, casting warm reflections over the marble. Small stained-glass panels hang from delicate iron frames every few steps, their colored glass catching the light like suspended jewels. Angels, maidens, and Greek gods watch silently over the maze of hedges. Raven stops for a moment, looking around in quiet wonder.
"Wow…"
Her voice comes out softer than expected. Marvel shines in her eyes. It's like watching a princess walk into a magical land.
"This feels like something out of The Secret Garden."
What surprises Isaac the most is that she doesn’t reach for her phone. Raven is not taking pictures or posting anything online. In fact, she isn't even carrying a phone. Instead, she simply takes it all in. The statues. The trees swaying gently in the night breeze. The stained glass glowing like fragments of moonlight. And him.
"It's magical," She whispers.
Isaac watches her as she moves through the garden. Her black gown flowing with the breeze, the golden crystals of the embroidery catching the light in colorful sparkles. The way she touches the marble wings of a statue with childlike curiosity. The way her eyes wander from one detail to another, as if she wants to absorb everything. Not for the world. Not for social media. Just for the memory. For the moment.
"It really is magical," he agrees softly.
He feels strangely at peace here, walking beside her beneath the cedar trees.
"I'm glad we're seeing it together."
"Me too…"
She moves slowly along the path, still holding his hand. Her steps are slow, but her hand pulls.
"It's not just beautiful. It's… enchanted."
Her attention drifts to the stained glass figures glowing softly above the hedges. She brushes her fingers over the colorful glass. Suddenly something catches her eye. She gasps lightly and tugs gently at his hand.
"Oppa, look!"
Raven pulls Isaac toward a statue standing at the center of a small clearing surrounded by well kept rose bushes, the roses as red as blood and larger than a fist.
King David.
The marble figure holds a lyre and gazes upward toward the sky, as if singing his psalms to God. She tilts her head, studying the statue… then glances back at him.
"You know…"
Her grin widens
"King David kind of looks like you."
The resemblance is striking. The curls. The beard. The big, expressive eyes. The long nose and full lips. Isaac laughs quietly, surprised. He too studies the statue for a moment. He looks back at her.
"I suppose I can see it."
Being compared to King David is not something he ever expected. But strangely, it doesn't feel embarrassing. Not coming from her. Her smile is tender as she reads the inscription engraved on the base of the statue. Psalm 145.
"Ashrei Yoshev Baischa..."
Raven's eyes flicker back to Isaac.
""In a way, you really are like him. A quiet wisdom. Loyalty. Strength. Faith."
Her voice grows thoughtful.
"A man who faced giants… and still stood tall among ruins. With his faith in Him steady, firm."
His eyes grow wider, his whole body freezes. She chuckles softly.
"Don't look so surprised, oppa."
She nudges his arm gently.
“I know you wrote the lyrics for two of the songs in The Midnight Boys… the quiet ones.”
He remains still.
"I saw it in the movie credits."
Isaac isn't expecting this, it's genuinely surprising. Not many people notice details like that. A small smile spreads across his face.
"You noticed that?"
His voice carries a quiet note of pride.
"I wrote those lyrics in a time of spiritual need."
The scent of jasmine drifts through the air as a gentle breeze moves through the trees. Puffy clouds cross the sky, moving lazily, blocking the stars in white patches.
"Sit with me, oppa?"
She lowers herself onto a nearby stone bench, patting the empty space beside her. The moon hangs high above the garden now, casting pale silver light over everything.
"I know you're an accomplished actor."
She glances up at the sky. Her mind searching for the name of the brightest stars, names his grandfather taught her so she could guide herself when at sea.
"You have awards, fame, prestige…"
Isaac sits on the stone bench, leaving a respectful space between them. For a moment neither of them speaks. Then her head tilts as it does whenever curiosity grips her.
“But. I have a serious question.”
Isaac glances at her cautiously.
“That sounds dangerous.”
She grins with mischief.
“Worst audition of your life.”
He exhales slowly, chuckling.
“Oh, that’s easy.”
He leans back slightly.
“I once forgot my entire line in front of Spielberg.”
Her jaw drops, sitting up abruptly.
“You’re kidding.”
“Nope.”
“What did you do?”
Isaac runs a hand through his curls.
“I improvised.”
“Did it work?”
“He stared at me for thirty seconds.”
Raven leans forward, eyes narrowed.
“And?”
“Then he said: ‘Interesting interpretation'. He proceeded to give me the script for the role.’”
She bursts out laughing, clapping.
“Oh my God.”
His smile is automatic now.
“Your turn.”
Raven pouts, then groans.
“Fine. My first stadium performance.”
“Yeah?"
“I hit a very high note... I was so proud... But then I started hiccuping.”
“On stage?”
“In front of thirty thousand people.”
Isaac winces.
“Ouch.”
“Yeah.”
She pouts, shoulders falling.
“The internet never forgets. You can look it up. ”
For a moment they simply look at each other. Not pity. Recognition. Near her foot, she notices a tiny yellow wildflower growing between the stones. She carefully shifts her shoe to avoid stepping on it. The breeze moves softly through the cedar branches above them. Jasmine fills the air. For a moment the world seems to pause. Just the two of them. Just this quiet garden.
“You know… I have this strange feeling we’re going to become really good friends.”
The sincerity in her eyes makes it clear she means every word.
“It might sound silly, but I feel like I’ve known you for ages.”
She's practically glowing with excitement.
“I feel incredibly lucky to meet my favorite Arcader and discover he’s an even cooler person than I imagined.”
She glances down at her hands for a moment. A small gold ring with a discreet amethyst in her middle finger. Then she looks back up at him, smiling widely.
“You know… I think my own dream might be starting to take shape too.”
Her smile becomes a grin.
“To write a song for someone nice in a popular movie or series. Producer Park asked me to work on the soundtrack for Squid Game America. I said I wasn't sure about it, but I might write a song for the Brat Pack to sing in an episode.”
Isaac blinks in surprise before breaking into a wide grin.
“A song?”
He laughs softly. The last time he sang anything was in the movie Jive, where he and the rest of the Brat Pack portrayed a rock and roll surf band inspired by The Beach Boys and Jan and Dean. He was 17 years old. One of the last hit movies for them.
“That’s a wonderful idea, sweetheart.”
His eyes follow the path of a few magnolia petals falling from a nearby tree.
“I’d love to sing one of your songs, but make it funny.”
His head tilts, rubbing his beard, considering his next suggestion.
“One that captures the Gemini energy. Yin and Yang colliding.”
Raven's eyes light up at his suggestion. The suggestion lands like a slam dunk in her brain, her mind throwing random lyrics that she hopes to remember when she goes back to the hotel room, where her lyric journal waits.
“I might need a few tips from you about New Wave and Dark Wave music, oppa,” she adds playfully. “Director Hwang and Producer Park want the soundtrack to have a classic 80's feel.”
She grins at him— Then she notices his body tense. Following his gaze, Raven sees a man, late forties, plastic surgery, likely wearing a toupee. She doesn't know who this man is, but she can tell that Isaac does. Isaac recognizes Sebastian Hughes, stopping mid stroll with his date. Isaac’s stomach tightens. Of all people, Sebastian. He looks at Isaac with a mixture of disappointment and judgment. Then his eyes register movement, Raven, half-covered by shadows, clearly surprising him to see that Isaac's not alone. Her gaze turns icy, knowing a bully when she sees one.
“Can I help you?” She asks coolly. "Staring is rude, ahjussi."
Sebastian looks both stunned and embarrassed to see that a k-pop idol of Raven's level fails to recognize him or his date, with the both of them being well known household names for Gen X and Gen Z. Sebastian's date, some youtuber turned actress named Poison Blue, quickly pulls him away.
“Gae-Saekki.” Raven mutters under her breath. Isaac exhales slowly, his jaw tight. The moment shatters the peaceful bubble around them.
“I’m sorry about that,” he says quietly.
He looks out toward the hedges for a moment.
“It’s just… sometimes the past feels like it’s still standing right in front of you.”
“Because the past is still part of your present, oppa.”
She gives him a reassuring look.
“But you’ll learn to carry it better each time. You're doing great.”
A breeze moves through the garden. The hum of music comes from somewhere inside. She studies him for a moment. Then she notices something. His lapel. Raven frowns.
“Your suit looks sad.”
Isaac blinks.
“My suit looks sad?”
She removes one of the hairpins from her hair. It’s a traditional hanfu hairpin, decorated with a deep purple ronghua flower, so dark it almost looks black. A delicate golden butterfly is perched on one of the petals, with a chain of tiny round golden beads that end with a tear-shaped faceted crystal bead hanging, that shimmers softly in the moonlight. She carefully places it against his lapel. Her fingers brush the small butterfly.
“Yeah. It needs a little personality.”
Before he can protest, she secures the hairpin onto his lapel.
“Keep it.”
He looks down at it.
“What is that?”
“Ronghua, a traditional hanfu accessory.”
She brushes the small golden butterfly lightly again.
“Handmade.”
He studies it more carefully.
“You made this?”
She just shrugs watching the crystals sparkle under the moonlight.
“Think of it as a reminder.”
“Of what?”
She grins, her eyes looking around the garden.
“That you survived tonight.”
He laughs quietly.
“Fair enough.”
The gesture feels deeply personal.
“Thank you… kiddo,” he speaks softly, his eyes still on the butterfly.
“This might be the most beautiful gift I’ve ever received.”
“My grandma taught me how to make them.” She says, a hint of pride in her voice.
“Keep it as a small token of my appreciation.”
She pats his arm gently.
“A little piece of Chinese history you can carry with you.”
He gently touches the butterfly on the hairpin.
“You have very talented hands.”
His smile grows warmer.
“I’ll treasure this.”
She grins proudly at the compliment. A soft gasp escapes her lips as that stubborn curl falls over his forehead again, making her laugh.
“This rebellious ringlet…”
She tucks it back behind his ear.
“I might write an ode to it tonight, oppa.”
He chuckles at her words.
“An ode to a curl sounds like a wacky poem, kiddo.”
Isaac's chuckle is rich and clear.
“Oh I bet it could turn it into a chart topper,.”
Her expression is suddenly playful.
“I'm known for writing lyrics about topics nobody thinks about."
She giggles softly, mouth covered.
“Ever since I debuted at thirteen, the comments have been like that.”
Raven looks down briefly.
“Raven the strange lyric songwriter.”
She grins, eyes twinkling with playfulness and pride.
“I just think there are so many things to write about besides love, bling and heartache..”
Her voice softens. She looks at the swaying trees.
“Like the stubbornness of a little rogue curl.”
Then she looks back up at Isaac—and her grin slowly returns.
“So you gave me a great song idea tonight.”
She nods firmly.
“Wait, you're really writing a song about my curl?.”
Isaac asks to make sure he understood correctly. Eyes wide.
“Yes, I’m definitely writing it.”
Isaac’s expression can't mask his happiness.
“You're definitely one of a kind, Raven.”
His voice is quiet but firm.
“I like that about you.”
He nods, his smile turning into a grin.
“I’m genuinely curious about what kind of song 'an ode to a curl' will be.”
Then his expression lights up.
“I’m really glad I could help.”
“Thank you, oppa.”
Her hands clasp together, eyes looking at the other people strolling through the garden.
“And please call me Liri.”
She turns her head towards him.
“Right now I’m Liri—not the K-pop idol everyone knows as Raven. I'm just Liri from Hawaii.”
A small, genuine smile appears on Isaac’s face.
“Okay… Liri from Hawaii.”
His voice softens.
“Call me Ike. Ike from Fairfax.”
She gently fixes the curls the breeze has scattered across his forehead.
“Thank you for letting me spend time with you tonight.”
Her voice softens.
“For letting me see the fun person you really are.”
She inhales deeply, letting the scent of jasmine and his cologne fill her lungs.
“For giving me a fun memory to return to on my artist block days.”
For a while, they simply talk—about childhood memories, about their dream projects, and even their pets. Isaac's huskies, Max and Milo, and Raven's cockatoo, caique and cockatiel. The night drifts by easily. Isaac watches her for a moment.
She’s much younger. A pop idol. And somehow the easiest person he’s talked to all night. That alone should probably worry him.
Next to him, Raven is having a similar thought. He’s famous. He’s older. And he’s being far kinder than most celebrities she’s met. Which, if experience has taught her anything… Probably means she should be careful.
And yet neither of them moves away.
Then her manager, Choi Min-Ho, appears at the edge of the garden, calling her.
"Raven-ssi. It's time."
Soon after, Jake Winters, Andrew McGowan and Andrew's wife Emily appear.
“I have to go, oppa.”
☆☆☆
The sweet goodnight
Isaac’s heart sinks when he hears her manager’s voice. The peaceful bubble of the evening suddenly bursts again. He doesn’t want this moment to end. He wants to keep talking to her—to learn more about Liri, the young woman behind Raven, to share more about himself, to keep building this fragile, beautiful connection.
“Already?” he sighs softly, squeezing her hand.
“Thank you for tonight, Liri. It was truly refreshing.”
He smiles warmly, genuine appreciation shining in his eyes. Then, leaning a little closer, she whispers:
“May I have your number, Oppa?”
“Of course.”
Raven asks her manager if she can have her phone and then hands it to Isaac with both hands, bowing slightly in the polite Korean manner.
“Here.”
She grins brightly.
“Want to take a selfie, oppa?”
Her smile is so wide it looks like she just won the lottery. They pose, making a peace sign and Isaac captures the moment with her phone. At that moment Jake, Andrew and Emily approach them, ready to ride the production-provided limousine that will take each one back to their homes. Isaac glances down at her phone and lets out a surprised laugh. There are no social media apps on it. He quickly saves his number and sends himself a heart emoji before handing the phone back.
“Can we all take a group selfie?” Raven looks at the approaching figures, excited to see that they’re Jake, Andrew and Emily.
“Of course we can,” he says with a chuckle, beckoning the others. “Group selfie time, come on!”
“Hello, unnie, ahjussis.”
She offers a polite bow to show respect.
They gather close to Isaac and Raven, Jake wrapping an arm around Isaac’s shoulders. Emily and Andrew stand beside Raven. Isaac counts to three.
“Everyone say “Whiskey!”
They all repeat the word with enthusiasm.
“Thank you very much!”
Raven bows to the four of them again.
“Goodnight, Oppa!”
Raven gives Isaac a quick hug before bowing politely to the other three.
“Goodnight unnie! Goodnight ahjussis!”
Isaac looks toward Emily, Jake and Andrew. He understands Korean, having learned the language for his role in Samael, which was shot entirely in South Korea and where he lived for a whole year because of filming. Andrew too speaks a bit of Korean. Emily and Jake are left in the dark.
“Ahjussis? I think you just aged Andrew and Jake twenty years, Liri.”
Raven giggles, her eyes full of mischief.
"See you tomorrow!"
Raven bows to all four of them one last time before walking to where Min-Ho waits. Isaac thanks her manager and waves goodbye as she leaves. Andrew is grinning at him.
“She’s something else, isn’t she?”
Isaac nods, eyes on her retreating figure. Then he sighs happily.
“Let’s go home.”
Jake looks scandalized.
“That brat! Why is she calling me 'ashooshi? Ashooshi? What the hell is that?”
Andrew bursts into loud laughter as Jake clutches his chest dramatically, shaking his head. Emily chuckles, amused by Jake's reaction.
“Explain something to me, Pacman,” Jake protests. “Why are you ‘Opa’? Nobody broke a plate! You weren't even dancing! Yet she’s shouting Greek wedding toasts at you, and calling me and Goldie ‘Ashooshis.’ I don’t have a cold, I don't even have the sniffles, Pacman! Does she think I'm contagious?"
Andrew, usually able to remain composed, nearly collapses laughing. Emily tries to steady him, laughing loud herself.
“Calm your tits, Tank! Stop being such a dramatic diva!”
Andrew scolds him, wheezing. They reach the parking lot. At that moment Paul Yang and his wife Edith arrive, followed by Matt Lyon and his wife Marianne, Kory Walters and Kory's girlfriend Rhianne O'Gorman, ready to go home after attending a nearby party.
“What’s going on?” Kory asks, watching Isaac, Andrew and Emily bent over, clutching their bellies, laughing hysterically. They all point at Jake, who is still 'clutching his pearls'. Isaac wipes a tear from his eye, leaning against a statue of an archangel near the edge of the parking lot, trying hard to calm down.
“Nothing,” he says with a grin. “Tank here is having a nervous breakdown because Liri called him, and Goldie ‘ahjussis'.”
He shrugs. Andrew is half coughing, half wheezing. Emily wipes tears from her eyes.
“Meanwhile she called me ‘oppa’, so apparently Tank here just aged twenty years.”
Kory and Matt burst out laughing. Thinking it's Jake's white hair and beard what gave Raven the wrong impression.
“There, there, Tank,” Paul, being Korean American, understands the joke, patting Jake’s back. “We’re all old uncles here—even Pacman. She just called him ‘older brother’ because he somehow earned her trust.”
Jake scoffs, not one bit convinced. Andrew slings an arm around Isaac’s shoulders.
“Forget the ‘oppa’ thing,” he says. “My question is—why is Pacman suddenly on first-name terms with a famous k-pop idol?”
He gives Isaac a knowing look. The others stare at him, wide-eyed.
"Something is definitely up".
Isaac shrugs, half amused, half embarrassed.
“Nothing is up. I'm doing it because she asked me to,” he says. “She said I could call her by her real name since we were having a really nice conversation.”
He suddenly realizes all of them are staring at him. A blush creeps up his neck.
“What?”
He shrugs awkwardly, his nails scratching his palm. Matt squints at Isaac.
“You were smiling at your phone, seconds ago.”
Isaac looks up.
“No, I'm not.”
Matt leans back smugly.
“You only smile like that when you’re in trouble.”
Jake nods gravely.
“He’s right.”
Andrew grins.
“Pacman’s doomed.”
Isaac groans.
“I hate all of you.”
He glares at them.
“Don’t give me those looks.”
Matt whistles long and low.
“Oh boy… our little Pacman is whipped.”
Kory snorts.
“And here I thought Beatle was the hopeless romantic.”
Andrew wags his eyebrows.
“So… when’s the wedding?”
Isaac turns bright red.
“Shut up, you idiots!”
Jake shakes his head.
“No way. We’re not letting this go. Payback for being labeled as an ashooshi.”
Isaac groans, looking up at the dark sky.
“Can we just go home now?”
Paul pats his shoulder as everyone begins heading toward the limousine the Squid Game production left ready for Andrew, Jake and Isaac and anyone in their entourage. Isaac runs a hand through his hair, leaving his curls completely disheveled.
“You’re all ridiculous.”
His phone suddenly buzzes.
“See? Just a friendly goodnight text.”
Matt immediately snatches the phone. His eyes widen. It's a simple text message.
“A text? No Instagram DM? No TikTok message? No snapchat message? What kind of Gen Z kid doesn’t use social media?”
Paul thinks for a moment, then he simply shrugs.
“Korean management intervention maybe. Many idols can’t have social media until they’re more reliable and independent. I suppose her management has some restriction clause like that.”
Isaac takes his phone back.
“So she just enjoys the moment.”
Kory whistles.
“Uh oh… you’re down bad, Pacman.”
“Shut up, Kory.”
Jake drapes an arm around him.
“Nope. We want details.”
“Yeah,” Kory adds. “How did you manage to get an idol’s number?”
Isaac buries his face in his hands. Matt laughs loudly.
“Wow, she even has you blushing like a schoolgirl! That's new! None of your exes ever turned you into a blushing pile of goo!”
Isaac wishes the ground would swallow him whole. He shoves Matt.
“It was a chance encounter, okay?”
He crosses his arms.
“She saw Jenniffer taunting me and pulled me out of there.”
The limousine door opens and Emily waves everyone inside.
“Alright, animals. Leave the boy alone.”
Isaac's shoulders relax, letting out a long exhale.
“Thanks, Em.”
He’s already thinking about texting Raven back. Remind her of the 'Ode to a curl'.
“And she gave me the hairpin from her hair,” he adds quietly. “Said my lapel 'Looked sad'.”
Andrew whistles.
“A hairpin? Wow. Marking her territory.”
Isaac groans again, covering his face.
“You're all being a pain right now.”
Andrew leans back on the seat.
“She has great taste in jewelry, though.”
Jake pulls out his phone.
“Her bio states her stage name is Raven, but her real name is Liri Yue-Kealoha.”
He whistles.
“That’s an exotic name for an exotic girl.”
He gives Isaac a sly look. Paul looks at him like a scientist assessing variables.
“So how was she as a conversationalist?”
Isaac looks down at his shoes.
“She’s witty,” he says quietly.
“And funny.”
He glances up.
“And very down to earth.”
He touches the pin.
“She made the hairpin herself.”
The group falls silent. Matt and Andrew stop laughing. Jake’s smirk fades. Even Paul looks surprised. The women lean closer to inspect the pin. Kory speaks first.
“She made it? From scratch?”
He whistles. The women are impressed.
“Okay… that’s impressive.”
Jake nods slowly, patting his thighs.
“Alright, I take it back. She’s not a brat.”
He grins, pointing at the hairpin.
“She’s a real artist.”
Isaac can’t help the smile that turns into a grin.
“She said I could keep it.”
Andrew sits up straight, clutching his phone, he suddenly slings an arm around him again.
“I don’t know how you charmed that girl, Pacman,” he says, showing his phone, “but she somehow convinced Producer Park to let us sing one of the songs she’s writing for the series.”
Isaac’s jaw drops.
“Wait… what?”
Andrew scrolls the email.
“She even suggested using one of my band’s old songs.”
His voice cracks slightly.
For Andrew, an actor-turned-musician, it’s a dream come true to have a big franchise like Squid Game use his music, even if it's one of his old songs from the 90s. Kory shakes his head in disbelief.
“This girl’s an angel.”
Kory feels genuinely touched.
“She’s getting the whole Arcaders crew back together.”
Kory rubs his face, his way of making sure this isn't a dream.
"Even if it’s only to sing a song for the series."
For Andrew, Kory and Matt—all three struggling more financially than Paul, Jake and Isaac—it could change everything. Isaac looks from Andrew to the others, stunned.
“She did that?”
A slow smile spreads across his face.
“For us?”
He looks down at the hairpin on his lapel.
“She’s a lucky charm, guys.”
He squeezes Andrew’s shoulder.
“She must’ve heard your music.”
Andrew’s grunge band had moderate success in the Pacific Northwest, though never reaching the heights of bands like Pearl Jam or Nirvana. Their biggest song, The Tears You Never Shed in the Light, once reached #18 on Billboard. Andrew still plays bars, weddings, and even funerals. This is his big chance. Andrew wipes his eyes, Emily holds him tightly now.
“She’s even researching New Wave music,” Isaac says. “To give the songs that proper 80s vibe.”
The group breaks into applause. For the first time in a long time, life feels like it might be smiling at them again. Andrew is no longer crying, his mega watt grin back on his face.
“Oh—and she’s writing a solo song for you too, Pacman.”
He looks up at the sky, patting his chest, feeling truly grateful.
“I think I’m going to church this Sunday to thank Him.”
The group bursts into laughter, saying a collective 'Amen!'. They hug each other before finally heading home. Tomorrow looks like it will be a big day for all of them.
☆☆☆
-End of Chapter 1-
