I laugh and tell him about the radio show opportunity. Girls Forever is still in its prime, with hopefully many years still ahead of us, but we all know that this career doesn’t last forever. What will my life be like after K-pop, I suddenly wonder? It seems like too big a question to ponder right now, as the music from the ballroom blasts on, filtering out through the balcony entrance.

“What about you?” I ask Jason, deflecting the conversation away from my minor existential crisis. “What’s going on in your career?”

He grins, straightening his shoulders. “Well, since you asked, you happen to be looking at the second male lead in Kim Haeyoung’s newest movie.”

I gasp. “Are you serious? Kim Haeyoung’s movies always make me sob! She’s like the best screenwriter in Korea. That’s amazing.”

“Thanks,” he says, shining with excitement. “Sena has been helping me prepare for the role, but I’m still nervous. It’ll be my first time acting in a production this big.”

“You’ll be great,” I say. “Will Sena be in the movie too?”

Jason and Won Sena publicly announced their relationship over a year ago. Being a popular K-drama star since she was a teenager, she has just as much star power as Jason, if not more. They’re a cute couple with a great, supportive fanbase, and the media has basically dubbed them “Korea’s Sweethearts.”

It’s been a while since I’ve felt that way for anyone, and even though I know it’s just as well—my life as an idol does not lend itself easily to romance—I can’t help but miss it.

“No. She’s already been tapped for a new drama,” Jason says, breaking my reverie. “They’re still looking for female leads for this one, actually, so if you’re interested…” He raises his eyebrows meaningfully.

I laugh. “I’ll keep that in mind. I’m sure my third-grade teacher would give me a glowing recommendation. Did I ever tell you I played a piece of toast in the school play about food groups?”

“A piece of toast? Whew, Rachel, I don’t know. I think you may be too qualified for a Kim Haeyoung film.”

We both laugh, and I feel a wave of emotion come over me. After everything we’ve been through, I’m grateful that Jason and I can still be friends. It could have ended in so many other ways, but I’m glad it ended here.

As if he’s thinking the same thing, Jason says, “I’m so happy I caught you tonight.”

“Same. But it’s time for a foot bath—these heels are killing me.”

Jason chuckles. “How about we cheers to end the night? Since I hear you’re an expert on all things ‘toast.’ ”

I roll my eyes at his cheesy dad joke but hold up my champagne flute. “To the next heartthrob of Hallyu.”