PD Kwon's smile widened as he watched twenty empty chairs being wheeled away.
The hollow scraping sound echoed through the cafeteria like nails on glass.
"And now," his voice cut through the tension, "for your first live stage performance..."
On cue, production staff rolled in long silver trays covered with pristine white cloths.
"A small congratulations for surviving the first round."
The cloths were whisked away with a theatrical flourish, revealing an elaborate spread that belonged in a high-end bakery window.
"Sweet options," PD Kwon announced as assistants began circulating.
"Cupcakes with rainbow sprinkles and gumdrops, or cherry tartlets with gold leaf."
Jisoo's eyes went wide. "Are those real?"
"Spicy selections—chili chocolate bites for the adventurous, or wasabi macarons that pack a punch."
Yuhyun leaned closer. "This feels like a trap."
"Hot choices include freshly steamed red bean buns and apple pies straight from the oven."
