Spectrum of Red. [LISRENE]

20

Lisa and Irene had just landed in Korea, the gentle hum of the car engine lulling them into a peaceful silence. They pulled up in front of the condominium. Rosé was waiting outside with a soft smile.

"You're free for the next three days,"

Rosé mentioned casually before giving Irene a light hug and bidding her goodbye. Irene thanked her and turned back to Lisa, who opened the door to the building.

As soon as the elevator doors closed, Lisa slyly reached for Irene's hand, making sure to avoid the CCTV's view. Irene squeezed back, her fingers warm against Lisa's. They didn't say anything-just a silent exchange of comfort and affection. When the elevator doors pinged open, they reluctantly let go.

Lisa gave Irene a small smile.

"See you later?"

Irene nodded.

"Yeah, see you."

They parted, heading to their respective apartments.

When Lisa opened the door to her place, she was immediately tackled by Tzuyu, who had clearly been waiting for her.

"Unnie!"

Tzuyu exclaimed, wrapping her arms around her in a tight hug.

Jeongyeon was sitting nearby, looking exasperated as she tried to get Tzuyu to focus on her homework.

"Welcome home,"

Jeongyeon greeted dryly, but there was warmth in her tone.

"You've just saved me from the battle of the century. I'm trying to get Tzuyu to finish this homework."

Lisa chuckled, hugging Tzuyu back before ruffling her hair.

"Thanks for holding down the fort." She glanced around.

"Where's Jisoo?"

"On department,"

Jeongyeon replied with a shrug.

"She'll be back later."

Lisa nodded and settled into her evening routine.

---

Meanwhile, Irene entered the Red Velvet condominium, greeted by an odd silence that immediately set her on edge. This wasn't normal; there was some kind of noise, either Yeri complaining about something or Joy cracking jokes.

"Where is everyone?"

Irene muttered, looking around.

Just then, Joy came out of Seulgi's room, her face a bit troubled. Irene's heart skipped a beat.

"What's going on?"

She asked, her voice laced with concern.

Joy sighed.

"Seulgi's been crying since last night. We've tried talking to her, but she won't tell us what's wrong."

Without another word, Irene hurried into Seulgi's room, where Wendy and Yeri were sitting on the bed, trying to comfort her.

Seulgi sat there, her face pale, eyes red from crying.

Irene quickly moved to her side, taking her hand as Yeri moved aside to give her some space.

"Seul,"

Irene said softly, squeezing her hand. Seulgi didn't respond right away, but when she finally looked up, her tears spilled over again. She immediately broke down, sobbing into Irene's shoulder.