IDOL

Chapter 1: Flight to Seoul

The days leading up to my flight felt like a blur of excitement and nerves. I hadn't seen Jaxon in what felt like forever. Even though we'd always been close, his move to Korea had left a void in my life that was hard to fill. Theo tried, but it wasn't the same.

"Are you all set, Zari?" my dad asked, peeking into my room as I packed my last few things.

"Yeah, I think so," I replied, zipping up my suitcase. My heart raced at the thought of finally seeing Jaxon, but I also couldn't ignore the nervous fluttering in my stomach at the possibility of meeting Kael.

"You know, I still can't believe you're flying to Korea all by yourself," my dad chuckled, ruffling my hair. "You've grown up so fast."

"I can handle it, Dad. Plus, Jaxon hyung is waiting for me," I said, feeling more confident than I actually was. Inside, my nerves were buzzing. The idea of flying alone didn't scare me as much as the unknown waiting on the other side. Jaxon, sure, but Kael? I'd never even spoken to him until that phone call, and the thought of seeing him face-to-face had my heart pounding in ways I didn't understand.

My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I knew it was Theo texting me, probably to remind me that he was coming to fetch me for the airport. What he didn't know was that I had a secret crush on Kael, a secret I kept buried deep within myself. I was just a fan, after all, and I never intended to let my feelings show.

My dad smiled softly and pulled me into a hug. "Just take care of yourself, alright? Jaxon told me he'll have everything ready for you when you land, but don't be afraid to call us if you need anything."

"I will, Dad," I promised.

Just the thought of Kael sent butterflies fluttering in my stomach. Would he be as charming in person as he seemed on stage? What would I even say to him?

With my thoughts racing, I grabbed my suitcase and headed downstairs, where Theo was waiting for me.

"Ready to go, Zari?" he asked in a low tone.

"Yeah," I replied.

"Take care always; I will miss you," he said, a hint of sincerity in his voice.

"I will not miss you," I laughed, brushing off the moment.

He hugged me tight. "Just go," he smiled.

When the boarding call echoed through the terminal, I felt a surge of adrenaline. I was finally on my way to Korea. The flight seemed to drag on forever, but I finally landed in Seoul, excitement bubbling within me.

As I stepped into the bustling airport, my eyes scanned the crowd for Jaxon. Suddenly, there he was, waving enthusiastically. My heart swelled at the sight of my brother, and I rushed toward him.

"Zari!" he called out, enveloping me in a warm embrace. "I missed you so much!"

"I missed you too, Jaxon!" I beamed, feeling a rush of comfort in his presence.

"I've arranged everything for you. We'll head to the hotel first," he said, glancing at my suitcase. "And guess what? The band is having dinner tonight, and they invited you to join us!"

"Really? I get to meet everyone?" My heart raced at the thought.

"Of course! Just relax and have fun. You'll love them," he assured me, his excitement contagious.

As we made our way to the luxury hotel Jaxon had booked, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. What would it be like to be surrounded by his bandmates? And more importantly, what would it be like to finally see Kael?

After checking into the hotel and freshening up, we headed to the restaurant where the dinner would take place. Jaxon led the way, and I followed closely, my heart pounding in anticipation.

When we arrived, the atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and chatter. Jaxon introduced me to each of the members: Hyunwoo, the charming leader; Woobin, the visual; Jayden, the Australian with a friendly smile; Jae-min, the shining star; and finally, Kento, the youngest, whose dance skills were legendary.

But my gaze was drawn to Kael. He stood out with his striking visuals, his youthful yet mature aura captivating everyone around him. I felt my cheeks flush as he caught my eye and flashed a warm smile.

"Hey, you must be Zari! Jaxon's little sister, right?" Kael said, his voice smooth and inviting.

"Y-yes! Hi," I stammered, my heart racing. I was finally meeting Kael, and I couldn't believe how nervous I felt.

"We're all excited to have you here," he said, making me feel a little more at ease.

"Hey! It's my beloved sister, guys. Don't dare!" Jaxon teased, causing the group to chuckle.

As the dinner progressed, I found myself laughing at their jokes, even though I was still slightly reserved. I felt more comfortable listening than talking, enjoying the banter around me. Jaxon watched proudly, happy to see me enjoying myself. It felt like a dream—one that I never wanted to end.

And in the back of my mind, the thought lingered: I was finally here, surrounded by the people I admired, and maybe, just maybe, I'd get to know Kael better.