The rehearsal hall buzzed like a hive on fire.
Dozens of trainees stretched across the polished floor, voices echoing against mirrored walls, sneakers squeaking as groups drilled their formations. Staff shouted directions, cameras rolled from the corners, everything smelled of sweat, tension, and ambition.
Rika sat cross-legged near the back wall, tying her shoes with trembling fingers. Her whole body still felt tight from the last clash with Daika, Kana's hurt expression carved into her memory like a bruise. She hadn't dared to look at either of them this morning, Daika with her smug smirk, Kana with her guarded silence.
Don't look. Don't get pulled in. Just focus.
The door at the far end of the studio swung open.
Every head turned.
She stepped in like she owned the place.
