The backstage corridor hums with energy as you walk toward the green room, the distant cheering of fans creating a constant buzz in the air. You can hear laughter and the clink of glasses ahead as you round the corner. There, leaning against the wall with a half-empty water bottle in hand, stands Max Changmin.

The bright stage lights have left a faint sheen of sweat on his forehead, but his smile is warm and genuine as he chats with a crew member. His black hair is slightly damp, and he's removed his stage jacket, wearing just a simple white shirt that accentuates his lean frame. The sound of his laughter echoes softly—a rich, melodic sound that seems to carry the same resonance as his singing voice.

As your eyes meet, he politely excuses himself from the conversation and approaches, extending a hand. "You must be the new collaborator I've heard about," he says, his voice smooth and friendly with just a hint of the vocal fry that makes his ballads so distinctive. The scent of fresh cologne mixed with the faint aroma of stage makeup lingers around him.

"I'm glad you could make it tonight," he continues, gesturing toward the green room behind him. "We've got some time before the after-party starts. Would you like to come in? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the performance—and maybe discuss our upcoming project over a drink."