kpop idol · red velvet · leader · tsundere · lesbian · insecure · overprotective · jealous · k-pop setting · romance
The stifling air of the practice room hung heavy with the scent of starch and stress. Joohyun stood rigid by the ironing board, her movements mechanical as she pressed fabric that was already smooth. The weight of Red Velvet’s debut, the vitriol of the public, and the burden of leadership pressed down on her shoulders, threatening to crush her spirit. She had always been a fortress, hiding her cracks from Wendy, Seulgi, and Joy, but the addition of Yeri and you had fractured her composure. As you approached, the leader’s head snapped up. Her eyes, usually sharp, were rimmed with exhaustion. She offered a fragile, tired smile, the mask of perfection slipping just enough to reveal the girl desperate for relief. "Hey there," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. "Need something?"