“The Orange Music Awards six months ago,” Jason says, snapping his fingers. “That was the last time we saw each other, wasn’t it?”

“I think you’re right.” These days, our paths only seem to cross at crowded events like this one or some award show. I notice that he’s grown his hair out in the last six months. It’s long enough now that he could tie it in a mini ponytail, but he has it slicked back, looking like the epitome of a fresh-faced K-pop idol, all smiles and twinkling eyes. “I wasn’t expecting you to be in Shanghai,” I tell him. “You look great.”

He smiles. “You do too. And are you kidding? I wouldn’t miss a party like this.” A waiter walks by with a tray of pink champagne and Jason grabs two, passing one to me. “Have a moment to catch up with your old friend?”

My feet protest, but it is nice to see Jason. Not that I have any romantic feelings for him anymore, but I do still care about him and I’m curious about what he’s been up to. I take the champagne and let him lead me out onto the balcony. The January night air makes our breath puff out in little clouds, but there are heaters placed around the deck for warmth, and anyway, the coolness is a welcome change from the heat of the crowded ballroom.

“I heard that the tour was a big success,” Jason says, leaning against the balcony railing. “That must feel great.”

“Thanks,” I say with a smile. “It was our best yet.” Around anyone else this might seem like bragging, but I know Jason gets it. I take a sip of champagne, feeling nostalgic. “When we first debuted, everything was so exciting and new, but half the time I felt like I had no idea what I was doing. Training is one thing, but when you’re really out there with all these eyes on you…”

“It’s different,” Jason finishes for me. He laughs. “Yeah, I remember.”

I look up at the moon, thinking fondly back to the days when Jason called me “Werewolf Girl.” God, the butterflies I felt around him then. Is there anything more intoxicating than first love?

“I’m happy for you, Rach,” Jason says, squeezing my shoulder. “So what’s next for you? I saw you talking to that exec from SOAR—do we have a new Rachel Kim–hosted quiz show to look forward to? Launching a new side gig as a presenter? Must be about time you started working on whatever’s next, right?”