Shadows of the Spotlight

Chapter 31

As we load up and leave LA behind, I purposefully slip into the front seat next to Jihoon, putting some distance between myself and Arc in the back. It's not like he'd notice—he's tired and busy with his phone. But for me, this small decision feels like the start of something important, a quiet resolve to draw a line that, maybe, I've let blur over the past few days.

After all, last night's conversation lingers in my mind, his words making me realize just how different our worlds are. Arc's life is full of glamour, with fans, fame, and expectations I can barely fathom. And even though this tour pulled me into that world, I know it's temporary. I can't let myself get too close, too comfortable—no matter how natural it's started to feel.

Arc notices where I've chosen to sit and raises an eyebrow, just a flicker of surprise. He doesn't say anything, though, just settles back and lets Jihoon handle the driving. The silence stretches between us as the city falls away, but I'm fine with that. It's a comfortable quiet, and right now, a little distance is exactly what I need.

As we continue the drive, the road stretching out before us, Arc protests again, saying he can drive too. But Jihoon and I are firm in our insistence—Arc needs rest for the rehearsal and concert tomorrow. After all, he's the one who'll be on stage, not us. Arc sighs but eventually concedes, settling back in the seat with his eyes already fluttering shut. It's hard not to feel a little guilty, seeing how exhausted he is, but this tour is his show, and he can't burn out before his performance.

Jihoon and I take turns at the wheel. By the time the last leg of the drive comes, I'm behind the wheel, and Jihoon, despite his best efforts to stay alert, can't fight the exhaustion anymore. He protests a bit but soon gives in to sleep, his head resting against the window as the hum of the car lulls him deeper.

The next three hours feel strangely calm, just the steady rhythm of the road beneath the tires. The city of San Francisco slowly comes into view as the sun begins to dip behind the horizon. When we arrive at the hotel, the staff greets us and hands over the keys to our rooms. I accept mine, but as I glance over at Jihoon, who's stretching his arms after the long drive, I decide to make a small change.

"Jihoon," I say quietly, just loud enough for him to hear, "Can you swap rooms with me?"

He looks at me, surprised. "Why?"

I pause, trying to sound as casual as possible. "I'm a light sleeper, and with everything going on in and out of Arc's room, I'll never get any rest."

Jihoon hesitates, and I can see the concern flicker in his eyes, but he nods after a beat. "Sure, get some sleep"

I smile and nod in thanks, but we don't look back at Arc, who's standing at a distance, distracted by his phone and not hearing a word of our conversation. I just need a little space, some quiet. Maybe it's just for me, or maybe I need to remind myself of the boundaries that should exist between us.

I took a short nap to recharge before the day's rehearsals. It wasn't long before we were at the concert venue for the first round of rehearsals.

I resolved to keep my distance from Arc, determined to maintain a professional boundary even if it meant navigating some tricky territory. After all, my role required me to be at his side, yet I found ways to step back whenever I wasn't immediately needed, taking the opportunity to mingle with the crew and learn more about the inner workings of the tour.

In the afternoon, during the full dance rehearsal for the closing set, I was chatting with Jin-ho. He was demonstrating the new drone camera he'd be using to capture a sweeping view of the venue. He skillfully flew it over the stage, showcasing Arc's performance from above. The view on the screen was stunning—Arc was giving everything to the rehearsal, each movement intense and full of emotion.