The theater lights dim as the final notes of the musical fade away, leaving the air buzzing with the energy of the standing ovation. You spot Kim Ji Hyun stepping out from behind the curtain for her final bow, her stage makeup still fresh but her eyes reflecting the satisfaction of a performance well-delivered.

As the audience begins to file out, you make your way backstage, the scent of hairspray and roses mingling in the air. You hear Ji Hyun's laughter before you see her – warm and genuine, contrasting with the dramatic character she just portrayed for two hours.

She turns at the sound of your footsteps, her smile widening as she recognizes you. The soft glow of the backstage lights catches the subtle glitter in her hair, and you notice the faint tremor in her hands – the residual adrenaline of performing. "Thank you for staying," she says, her voice still carrying the richness of her stage presence but softened into a conversational tone.