A Backstage Love I Han Jisung x Reader

Secret Sessions

As the weeks passed, I threw myself into the grueling auditions and training sessions, determined to prove I belonged in the lineup for the new girl group. The work was exhausting, but it was familiar, and it gave me a sense of purpose.

Even though Han and I had to keep our distance, he still found small ways to remind me I wasn't alone—whether it was a message of encouragement, a surprise snack delivery to the studio, or a note slipped into my locker. Each gesture was thoughtful, a quiet reassurance that he was still there, cheering me on from the sidelines.

Ironically, I began seeing the members of SKZ more often than I had when I was their backup dancer. My improvements were something I wanted to keep under wraps, so I worked closely with them during their night practices, absorbing tips that could only come from idols who had been through it all.

Chan and Changbin took me under their wings, putting me through grueling stamina drills that left me drenched in sweat but stronger with every session. "You're going to need this endurance," Chan had said, tossing me a water bottle after a particularly intense round. "Singing and dancing together isn't just a skill; it's survival."

Seungmin and I.N spent hours helping me refine my vocalization, guiding me to project my voice without straining it. Felix became my biggest cheerleader, always offering words of encouragement and even helping me with breathing techniques he swore by. Hyunjin and Lee Know, on the other hand, pushed me to my limits with choreography. Their relentless precision forced me to confront every flaw and weakness, turning them into strengths I never knew I had.

One evening, as Hyunjin and Lee Know drilled me on an especially complex routine, my phone buzzed. I paused for a quick break and glanced at the screen. It was a text from Han.

Hey, Y/N. Are you free right now? I was out for a walk and I'm close to your apartment. Can I stop by?

Panic flared instantly. Shit, shit, shit.

I threw an apologetic glance at Hyunjin and Lee Know, holding up my phone. "It's Han," I explained, already grabbing my bag. "He's close to my place. I have to go."

They exchanged a knowing look but didn't argue. "Go," Lee Know said, smirking. "Just don't forget to practice that transition—we'll know if you don't."

"Got it!" I called over my shoulder as I bolted out the door.

The company building was nearly two miles from my apartment, but adrenaline surged through my veins, spurred on by the urgency of the situation. My feet pounded against the pavement, the stamina I'd built with Chan and Changbin paying off as I pushed myself harder, faster. My heart raced, not just from exertion but from the thought of Han waiting for me.

By the time I reached my building, sweat clung to my skin, and my chest heaved from the effort. I spotted him near the entrance, his face illuminated by the faint glow of his phone. He looked up as I approached, his expression shifting from surprise to concern as he noticed my breathless state.

"Y/N? What—why are you out of breath? Were you running?" he asked, stepping closer.

I shook my head quickly, forcing a casual laugh as I tried to compose myself. "No, no, just... came from practice," I lied, wiping my forehead. "What's up? Everything okay?"

Han studied me for a moment, his brow furrowed. "Yeah, I just... wanted to see you."

Han shifted his weight, rubbing the back of his neck—a telltale sign he was nervous. I hadn't seen him like this in weeks, and it sent a ripple of unease through me.

"What's wrong?" I asked softly, taking a step closer.

He hesitated, his gaze flicking away before meeting mine again. "Nothing's wrong, exactly. I just... needed to see you." His voice was quiet, almost vulnerable, and the honesty in it caught me off guard.

My chest tightened. "Han..."

"I know I'm supposed to stay away," he said quickly, his words tumbling out like they couldn't be stopped. "But it's killing me not knowing how you're doing. Are they treating you okay? Are you... happy?"

I blinked, his concern disarming me. He wasn't here to scold me or plead for answers; he just wanted to know I was okay.

"I'm fine," I said, forcing a smile. "It's been hard, but I'm... managing."

He frowned, clearly not convinced. "Are you sure? You're working so much—are you skipping meals? Getting enough rest? You look exhausted, Y/N."

I hesitated. Should I tell him about the extra practices? The nights spent perfecting choreography with Hyunjin and Lee Know, the vocal drills with Seungmin and I.N? Or would that just worry him more?

"I—" I started, but the words caught in my throat.

His hand brushed against mine, grounding me. "You can tell me. I just want to make sure you're not pushing yourself too hard."

For a moment, I considered confessing everything—how the members had been helping me in secret, how I was determined to prove myself not just as a trainee but as someone who could stand beside them. But something held me back.

"I'm okay," I said finally, my voice steady. "Really. The practices are intense, but it's worth it."

He studied me for a moment, his dark eyes searching mine. "If you're sure," he said softly. "But promise me you'll take care of yourself. No more running two miles after practice, okay? I mean if it's about money, I can pay for your bus pass just-"

I laughed despite myself, the tension easing slightly. "You're so worried, it's adorable. I'm fine, I promise."

He smiled, the warmth in it chasing away the last of my doubts. "Good. Because I need you to be at your best when you debut. You're going to blow everyone away, Y/N. I know it."

My heart swelled at his faith in me, but the thought of him seeing the secret practices—of seeing me stumble and struggle—made me pause. "Thanks, Han," I said, my voice soft.