Day 12.

Their “next event” was a charity gala hosted by one of Jisoo’s brand sponsors. A black-tie night, full of celebrities, press, and old ghosts.

When Hana walked out of the dressing room in her agency-selected gown — black satin with an open back — Jisoo nearly dropped his phone.

“Wow,” he said before catching himself. “I mean — you clean up.”

She arched a brow. “Try that again. With words that don’t sound like an insult.”

“You look… good,” he said, eyes darting away.

At the venue, cameras flashed nonstop. Hana held his arm like a pro, smiling when needed, laughing at just the right volume.

But the real storm hit during the afterparty.

Jisoo’s ex.

Actress. Model. Former co-star.

She sauntered up in diamonds and blood-red lipstick, eyes like razors.

“Oh. So this is the coffee girl,” she said, voice laced with sugar and venom.

Hana didn’t flinch. “And you must be the one who left him with emotional allergies.”

Jisoo coughed to cover a laugh.

The ex’s smile vanished. “It’s cute. Playing pretend.”

Hana leaned in. “And yet here you are. Still watching.”

After she walked away, Jisoo turned to Hana, impressed. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“I know,” she said. “But it was fun.”

“Are you… actually jealous?”

She scoffed. “Of your ex? Please.”

But later, in the car, neither of them spoke.

Her hand rested near his on the seat.

Close. Almost touching.

He didn’t move away.

And neither did she.