The pause was surgical.
My pulse spiked.
"We've all seen situations where proximity breeds attachment. Where professional distance becomes difficult under sustained pressure." He looked at me. "I'm not suggesting that's happening. I'm noting that intense focus—particularly from security personnel who may become invested in their principals—can create complications affecting the entire group."
Rune's knuckles went white.
"Griffin has maintained appropriate standards," Kang said, with an edge in his voice.
"I'm sure." Soo-jin smiled slightly. "I'm thinking about Rune's well-being. The pressure of being singled out. Of feeling responsible if something distracts from the tour's success."
The implication was clear: if complications arose, Soo-jin would blame Rune.
Do-hyun cleared his throat. "Rune's been professional throughout. So has Griffin. I've observed their interactions. No evidence of complications."
Soo-jin's gaze snapped to Do-hyun. For half a second, something cold flashed. Then it smoothed away.
"Of course," Soo-jin said. "I'm simply managing risk. Protecting the group's image. Ensuring our focus stays on what matters."
"Noted," Kang said. "Griffin stays. Enhanced protocols. Briefing again tomorrow."
Soo-jin left without hurry. Do-hyun lingered, typing on his tablet. When Soo-jin was gone, he looked at Kang. "I'll send you both the access data by noon."
He left.
Rune stood. Looked at me with an unreadable expression, then left with Soyeon.
Kang waited.
"He knows," he whispered. "That you're attracted to Rune. That Rune trusts you specifically. Soo-jin doesn't accuse. He implies. Plants seeds. Waits for them to grow into problems he can solve."
"I haven't crossed lines."
"I know, but you're close. And close is visible." He looked into my eyes. "Be careful. Whatever this is, it's showing. And someone is watching for it."
Rehearsal was at 2:00 PM.
I arrived early and walked the venue again. Checked corridors and wings.
My mind circled back to last night. Rune saying his real name like something forbidden. The six inches that felt impossible to cross. The admission he'd counted.
At 1:45, the band arrived.
Jinwoo was steady. Taemin bright. Minjae anxious. Rune last, hoodie up, shoulders curved.
He saw me immediately. His posture opened and straightened.
I nodded.
He nodded back.
They took the stage. The music started with uptempo, complex choreography. Half-speed and calling counts.
I tracked exits and approach positions.
I also watched Rune.
Absolute precision. Exhaustion making him ethereal, barely there, all control. Eyes closing during phrases, something genuine surfacing before the performance reclaimed him.
