Chapter 1
The bustling atmosphere of Incheon International Airport was filled with the excited cheers of fans. The departure terminal echoed with the sound of cameras clicking, fans shouting names, and banners waving in the air. Stray Kids, dressed in their stylish airport fashion, stood before their beloved STAYs, offering smiles and waves before their flight to Milan for Fashion Week.
Hyunjin adjusted his sunglasses and gave a charming wave to the crowd. “Thank you for coming! We’ll be back soon, STAYs!”
Bang Chan chuckled beside him, patting his shoulder. “They’re really sending us off with so much love. We should work hard.”
Felix grinned, handing out a few heart signs. “Of course! Milan, here we come!”
Jeongin laughed as he signed a few autographs, “I hope we get to try all the good food there.”
After a final round of goodbyes, the group proceeded through security and boarded their flight. The luxurious business-class seats were a welcome sight after their hectic schedules. As soon as the plane took off, most of them began relaxing.
Han stretched his arms with a yawn. “Finally, some time to rest before the madness begins.”
Just as the atmosphere settled, footsteps approached them. A woman dressed in a bold yet casual outfit walked down the aisle, catching Jeongin’s attention. She had an effortlessly cool aura, exuding confidence with every step. She wore an oversized black blazer with a crisp white tank top tucked into baggy cargo pants. A silver chain belt hung loosely around her waist, and chunky platform boots completed her ensemble. Her short, tousled hair gave her an androgynous, edgy look, and a pair of black sunglasses rested on her nose.
Jeongin nudged Changbin. “Hyung, look at her. Her fashion sense is insane.”
Changbin lifted his head, observing her with interest. “She definitely has a model vibe.”
The woman glanced at them momentarily but continued walking to her seat. Jeongin, still intrigued, whispered, “I wonder who she is.”
Milan, Italy
The moment Stray Kids stepped out of the airport, flashing lights and chaotic noises surrounded them. Paparazzi and reporters swarmed to capture every second of their arrival. The members greeted the media politely, accustomed to the attention, when suddenly, a massive commotion erupted nearby. The sea of reporters turned their focus, cameras clicking rapidly as they rushed toward someone else’s arrival.
“Who is it?” Hyunjin muttered, trying to get a glimpse past the crowd.
Han squinted toward the commotion, eyes widening in recognition before he gasped. “No way... Hoshino Reina-chan?!”
The group turned to him in surprise.
“Wait, you know her?” Felix asked, raising a brow.
Han nodded enthusiastically. “Of course! We met during a Balmain photoshoot, and we became friends! She’s one of the top global ambassadors for luxury brands.”
Without hesitation, Han darted forward, weaving through the crowd until he reached Reina. “Reina-chan!” he called out.
The elegant yet bold-looking woman turned, her sunglasses still in place, but as soon as she recognized Han, a rare smile crossed her lips. “Han!” she greeted warmly, embracing him in a quick hug.
The flashes from the cameras intensified as reporters went wild at the unexpected interaction. Whispers and murmurs spread rapidly, questioning the nature of their relationship.
“Hoshino Reina knows Han from Stray Kids?”
“Could this be the rumored relationship?”
A particularly loud reporter boldly asked, “Reina, is Han of Stray Kids your rumored boyfriend? How long have you been together?”
The moment the question left his lips, more reporters followed suit, bombarding them with similar inquiries. Han shifted uncomfortably, his ears turning red as he hesitated. He was about to retreat when Reina suddenly spoke, her voice carrying an air of authority and professionalism.
“Stop indulging in baseless speculation and making every interaction of mine an excuse for sensationalized gossip. Han is a close friend in the modeling industry, nothing more. I have no interest in entertaining fabricated rumors. Now, if you’ll excuse us.”
Her words were firm, composed, and left no room for argument. She then grabbed Han’s wrist and pulled him away from the crowd, leaving the paparazzi stunned.
As they walked briskly through the airport, Han let out a breath before breaking into laughter. Reina shot him a confused glance. “What’s so funny?”
Han chuckled, shaking his head. “You totally just dragged me into your grand escape. You didn’t even realize I had company.”
Reina blinked before groaning, rubbing her temple. “Damn it. You were with your members, weren’t you?”
Han smirked. “Yep, and now they’re probably wondering what just happened.”
Reina sighed, adjusting her sunglasses. “Well, they’ll survive. Come on, let’s get out of here before more nonsense spreads.”
Han only laughed harder, amused by how Reina handled things. “This is going to be an interesting trip.”
