IDOL

Chapter 2: Getting to Know Kael

The laughter and chatter filled the restaurant, creating a warm atmosphere that eased my nerves. I had finally met Jaxon's bandmates, and they were everything I had imagined and more. Each of them had their own charm, but my heart was undeniably drawn to Kael.

After dinner, we migrated to a cozy lounge area with soft couches and dim lighting. The group was lively, sharing stories and teasing each other, but I felt a little out of place at times. Jaxon must have sensed this because he plopped down next to me, nudging my shoulder playfully.

"Having fun?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Yeah, it's great," I replied, trying to match his enthusiasm. "Everyone is so nice."

"I told you! Just wait until you get to know them better," he said. "You're officially part of the family now."

I glanced around the room, my gaze landing on Kael, who was animatedly discussing something with Woobin. They both laughed, and Kael's smile made my heart skip a beat. Suddenly, he caught my eye and waved, a bright grin spreading across his face.

"Zari! Come over here!" he called, motioning for me to join them.

I swallowed hard, feeling the butterflies erupt in my stomach. "Me?"

"Yeah, you! We were just talking about what you like. Come share your thoughts!" he urged.

Jaxon nudged me again, a teasing grin on his face. "Go on, baby sister. They want to know about you."

Taking a deep breath, I stood and walked over to their group. My heart raced, but I couldn't help the smile creeping onto my face.

"Hey, Zari!" Woobin greeted, leaning back in his seat. "Kael was just telling me about how he was nervous meeting you."

Kael flushed slightly, a sheepish smile appearing on his lips. "I may have said a few things..."

I laughed, feeling the tension melt away. "Really? I was the nervous one!"

"Why were you nervous? You're our guest," Woobin said, shrugging it off. "We're excited to meet you!"

"Yeah! It's not every day we get to meet Jaxon's little sister," Kael added, leaning forward slightly, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, what are you into? Hobbies? Music?"

"I love drawing and photography," I said, feeling more confident now. "Nature is my favorite subject. I enjoy capturing sunsets and flowers. It's like... I see beauty in little things."

"That's so cool!" Kael exclaimed. "I wish I could draw. I can't even manage stick figures," he joked, and the group erupted into laughter.

"What about you? What do you like?" I asked, genuinely curious.

"I love music, obviously," he said, flashing me that charming smile again. "But I also enjoy cooking. It's a great way to relax. Plus, I get to eat afterward!"

"Kael's the best cook in the group," Jaxon chimed in. "Ramen is the only edible food he can make."

"Hey, I'll have you know I can cook anything!" Kael defended, pretending to be hurt.

"I wouldn't call that." Jaxon teased, winking at me.

The banter continued, and I felt myself relax further. I shared more about myself, and they asked questions, genuinely interested in my answers. As the night wore on, the conversation flowed easily, and I found myself laughing and joking with them.

Eventually, the night began to wind down. Kento, tired from a long day of practice, yawned and stretched. "I think I'm going to hit the hay. Can't wait to show you around tomorrow, Zari!"

"Yeah, same here!" Hyunwoo chimed in. "There's so much to see, and we'll make sure to take you to all the best spots!"

The thought of exploring Korea with them excited me, but I couldn't shake the feeling that this night was special. I had come to visit Jaxon, but I was also getting to know Kael—a connection that felt deeper than just being a fan.

"Zari, do you want to join us for a hike tomorrow?" Kael asked, his tone genuine. "We're planning to go early in the morning. The views are stunning, and I'd love to have you along."

My heart raced at the invitation. "Really? I'd love to!"

"Awesome! I'll make sure to bring some snacks," he said, a grin breaking out across his face.

As the others started to filter out, Jaxon pulled me aside. "You had a great time, didn't you?"

"Yeah, it was amazing," I admitted, my cheeks still flushed from all the excitement.

"Just wait until you get to know them better," he said knowingly. "They'll become like family."

As I climbed into bed that night, I replayed the evening in my mind. Kael's smile, his laughter, the way he looked at me with interest—it all made my heart flutter. This trip was turning out to be more than I had ever hoped for.

The thought of the hike in the morning filled me with anticipation. I couldn't wait to see what adventures lay ahead in Korea.