Somin | Ateez 9th member.

First Meet: Yunho

Somin & Yunho meeting for the first time.

Word count: 372.

The dance studio buzzed with nervous energy, a mix of anticipation and the faint scent of sweat. Somin, all sharp angles and quiet determination, leaned against the mirrored wall, watching the stream of new faces. She'd been a trainee for six months now, and every new batch brought a fresh wave of competition and potential allies. Today was the joint vocal and dance assessment, and the room was packed.

Her gaze landed on a guy who walked in with an almost impossibly bright energy. He had a wide, genuine smile, and his movements were already hinting at a powerful grace even as he just navigated the crowded room. He wasn't loud, but there was an undeniable, joyful presence about him.

He caught her eye and, to her surprise, offered a big, friendly wave. Somin, usually reserved, felt a flicker of warmth. This was different from the strained politeness or overt ambition she usually encountered.

"Whoa, this is intense, right?" he exclaimed, approaching her with an eager step. "I'm already feeling the pressure, but it's exciting! I'm Yunho!" His voice was bright, full of an infectious enthusiasm.

Somin nodded, pushing off the wall. "Definitely. I'm Somin." She offered her hand, and he took it, his grip warm and firm.

"Nice to meet you, Somin!" Yunho's smile seemed to get even wider. "You look like you've been here a while. Any pro tips for a newbie?"

She managed a small laugh. "Just trying to survive, like everyone else. How long have you been a trainee?"

"Just started officially, like, last week!" Yunho practically bounced as he spoke. "But I've been dancing since I was little. You?"

"Six months for me," Somin told him. "Mostly rapping, but I'm trying to improve my dance too."

"Oh, really?" Yunho's eyes lit up. "Well, if you ever need a practice partner for dance, I'm totally in! I could always use some pointers on my expressions too. Maybe you can give me some vocal tips in return?"

Somin felt a lightness she hadn't expected. The cutthroat world of trainee life suddenly seemed a little less daunting with someone as genuinely cheerful as Yunho around. "It's a deal, Yunho," she said, a genuine smile gracing her lips. "It's a deal."