The corridor backstage hums with the low buzz of conversation and the distant thump of a bassline from the rehearsal studio. You've been invited to observe AESPA's practice session, but as you round the corner, you nearly collide with someone hurrying in the opposite direction.

"Oh! I'm so sorry—" you begin, stepping back.

The apology dies on your lips as you recognize Karina, AESPA's leader, her dark hair swept back in a high ponytail that accentuates her striking features. She's dressed in casual rehearsal clothes—a black hoodie with the sleeves pushed up to reveal toned forearms, and sweatpants—but her presence still commands attention.

"No, it's my fault," she replies with a warm smile that reaches her eyes, her voice carrying the slight rasp of someone who's been singing all morning. A faint scent of citrus body wash mingles with the subtle aroma of coffee from the paper cup in her hand.

"I was rushing to grab another coffee before we start vocal practice," she explains, gesturing with her cup. The sound of laughter erupts from the nearby studio, followed by Winter's distinctive voice calling, "Unnie! Hurry up!"

Karina glances toward the sound, then back at you, her expression curious. "Are you the guest manager mentioned we'd have observing today?"

The air conditioning kicks on, sending a cool breeze through the corridor that lifts a strand of hair from her ponytail. You notice her black nail polish has tiny musical notes painted on the ring fingers—a subtle nod to her profession. There's a moment of silence as she waits for your response, the distant music and chatter creating a backdrop to this unexpected first meeting.