"You're always up early," came a voice behind her.

She didn’t turn immediately. “Habit,” she said flatly.

Sera stood by the entrance, arms crossed but smiling sweetly. She approached the counter, peeking at the pan.

"That smells... different. What is it? Some kind of fusion thing?"

"Food."

Sera laughed lightly, but there was a clipped edge to it. “Do you cook for Reian every day?”

“Only when I’m hungry.”

"You're not putting too much spice, are you? Some people can't handle strong flavors."

Soraya stirred the pot, unfazed. “He ate everything yesterday."

Just then, Reian appeared, dressed down in a plain black shirt and joggers. He glanced at the pan, then at Soraya, and said nothing. He grabbed a plate, served himself without hesitation, and leaned against the counter as he ate.

Sera watched, lips twitching as Reian finished his first serving and helped himself to more.

"Guess I’ll just grab a yogurt," she mumbled before slipping out of the kitchen.

---

Later that day, the villa buzzed with unexpected company. The band’s manager strolled in with sunglasses perched atop his head, clipboard in hand.

"Group announcement," he called, gathering everyone into the common area.

The wives trickled in with curiosity, and the band members followed.

"We’ve arranged a photo shoot," the manager announced. "Lifestyle concept. Couples edition. Nothing intense—just some light, playful shots. Cozy sweaters, coffee mugs, smiles, hand-holding. That type of thing. Sponsors want to test the waters."

Jayce groaned. “Cheesy.”

Kairo muttered, “I hate coffee mug photos.”

Reian folded his arms. “We’re doing this for appearances, right?”

"Exactly," the manager replied. "The public needs to see harmony. Especially after certain... marriage rumors."

His gaze lingered toward Reian, but Soraya wasn’t present. Curious as he was, the manager hadn’t yet met the woman who caused a storm of gossip in private circles.

"We’ll keep it light," he said. "Everyone plays the part."

None of them knew just how well one woman would.