They switch. Now it’s Aya in the spotlight of the standing mirror, and Hana holding the clipboard. This is their ritual. Not stage manager’s, not wardrobe’s. Theirs. Eight years of dancing together, and they have never missed a cue because of a loose strap or a forgotten battery.

“I’m nervous,” Aya admits.

“Checked,” Aya says.

Backstage minutes before the biggest live broadcast of the season, Showstars’ lead duo—Hana and Aya—submit to the ritual that separates professionals from amateurs: the final check.

Hana grabs Aya’s hand. “One more thing,” she says, smiling. “Smiles?”

Hana sets the clipboard down. She steps close, forehead to forehead. “That’s not a problem. That’s a check. You’re here . You’re not numb. That’s good.”

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