Navigating the set of A-List, the air alive with activity, celebrities mill about, preparing for their appearances on the show, while crew members bustle around, ensuring everything is in place for the upcoming segment.
With purpose in his step, Kai carries a stack of supplies toward the stage where the charades challenge is about to commence. His strides are light, his spirits buoyant as he anticipates the fun ahead. He's eager to watch Haneul and Daewon, who are on the same team, showcase their skills.
He's also excited to see them look dumb playing charades.
As he approaches the stage, his gaze fixed on the lively atmosphere before him, disaster strikes.
With an unexpected snap, the sole of Kai's shoe breaks loose, sending him stumbling forward. His heart races as he tries to regain his balance, but it's too late. He lands with a thud, a chorus of gasps echoing around him.
Kai sits up from his sudden fall, and his expression twists into a scowl directed at his malfunctioning shoe.
With frustration boiling over, he rips it off his foot and brandishes it like a weapon, shaking it vigorously in the air.
"Stupid shoe!" He yells.
Haneul and Daewon rush over to him, concern etched on their faces, but Kai waves them off with a grin.
"I'm fine, just a little stumble."
Their attention shifts to his broken shoe, and Haneul gestures towards Kai's feet.
"Do you have another pair on hand?" He asks.
Kai shakes his head ruefully as he slips the damaged shoe back on. "Nope, this is my only one."
"Any spares at home?" Daewon asks, a hint of concern in his voice.
Kai laughs, shaking his head. "No way! I'll just have to make do until payday."
Haneul and Daewon exchange a knowing glance, a silent agreement passing between them as they begin to scheme.
"We can't have you hobbling around until then." Haneul says with a mischievous grin. "Lets go shoe shopping!"
Daewon nods in agreement. "Yeah, we'll buy you some."
Kai's eyes widen in surprise at their sudden enthusiasm. "Wait, you don't have to do that!"
But Daewon waves off his protests. "Consider it a gift from us."
Haneul chimes in, "Besides, it'll be fun!"
Eventually, Kai relents.
As the final scene wraps up on the set of A-List, Haneul and Daewon lead Kai out into the bustling city streets. The neon glow of billboards illuminates the evening sky as they make their way to a shopping centre that exudes elegance and extravagance.
The trio steps through the gleaming entrance adorned with polished marble, greeted by the soft hum of luxurious boutiques and the scent of high-end perfumes lingering in the air.
Kai's eyes widen in awe at the sight before him, his breath catching at the grandeur of it all. This is a world he's only seen in movies or on TV.
Haneul gestures casually, "Come on, there's a store on the second floor that's got some good stuff.
Kai follows them, feeling a mix of nervousness and exhilaration as he takes in the designer storefronts and opulent displays.
This is a far cry from the modest shops he's accustomed to.
As they stroll through the pristine corridors, Kai can't help but feel a sense of wonder at the lavish surroundings. The polished marble floors and sparkling chandeliers create an atmosphere of luxury that Kai has never known. He looks around, wide-eyed and a bit overwhelmed by the opulence surrounding him.
Daewon walks beside Kai, his stoic expression softened by the slightest hint of a smile.
"You need something that'll last." He says, his deep voice steady and reassuring.
Kai glances at both of them, feeling a mix of excitement and trepidation.
"I've never been to a place like this." He admits, his voice tinged with awe.
Haneul chuckles, giving Kai a friendly nudge. "Well, there's a first time for everything."
As they enter a high-end shoe store, the sleek displays and neatly arranged rows of footwear catch Kai's attention. Haneul immediately starts browsing through the sneakers, while Daewon stands by Kai's side, observing his reactions with quiet amusement.
Kai tentatively picks up a pair of sneakers, his eyes lighting up at the quality and design.
"These are so cool." He says, his enthusiasm bubbling over.
Haneul grins, tossing an arm around Kai's shoulders. "Try them on. Let's see if they fit."
Kai sits down, slipping off his broken shoes and trying on the new pair. The comfortable fit and stylish look make him smile.
"They're perfect." He says, looking up at Haneul and Daewon.
Daewon nods approvingly. "Then they're yours."
"But I can't afford these." Kai says regretfully.
Haneul waves off his concern. "Don't worry about it. Consider it a gift from us."
Kai feels a surge of gratitude and happiness, but he manages to hide it behind a small, "Thank you"
Haneul winks, his playfulness shining. "Anything for you, Kai. Now let's find you another pair, just in case."
"Can't have you walking around with only one good pair of shoes." Daewon nods in agreement.
After buying the new sneakers, Haneul and Daewon lead Kai deeper into the luxurious shopping centre. Kai, still amazed by the extravagance around him, is whisked into several high-end stores.
"Let's get you some new clothes." Haneul suggests, guiding Kai towards a boutique filled with stylish apparel. "Your sense of fashion is… Well. Why don't you let us worry about that."
"Hey!" Kai sticks out his chest. "What's that supposed to mean?"
Daewon smiles. "That you look good in anything."
Kai hesitates at first, but Haneul and Daewon pick out outfits for him, their choices highlighting Kai's natural charms. He tries on various pieces, each more fashionable, and pricey, than the last.
He tries on a stylish jacket, turning right to left to analyse it in front of a full body mirror.
"That looks great on you." Daewon says, his tone serious but eyes warm.
Kai, feeling more comfortable, starts enjoying the process. They continue to various stores, picking out accessories and even some gourmet sweets. Kai's protests about the costs are consistently waved off by Haneul and Daewon, who seem to take genuine pleasure in spoiling him.
Kai beams, feeling a mix of gratitude and triumph. "I can't believe all this is for me!"
"You deserve it." Daewon replies, handing the cashier a credit card.
Their final stop is a high-end restaurant within the shopping centre. The ambiance is refined, with soft lighting and an elegant decor. They are seated at a cosy table by the window, the city lights twinkling outside.
They enjoy a delicious dinner, the conversation flowing easily. Haneul and Daewon carry on as if this is their norm, while Kai savours every bite. He still feels somewhat out of place, but now in more high-end clothes he's feeling more confident.
After the meal, they gather up the numerous shopping bags, with Haneul and Daewon taking most of the load. Kai walks out with his hands free, a triumphant smile on his face.
"This was great!" Kai exclaims.
Haneul wraps his free arm around Kai's waist. "Anytime. Just wait till next time."
Daewon nods in agreement, his eyes enviously staring down at Haneul's grasp on Kai.
Before they leave, Kai glances around and then gives Haneul and Daewon a mischievous look. "Hey, follow me for a sec."
Curious, they follow Kai to a secluded bathroom near the back of the shopping centre. Once inside, Kai locks the door and turns to them with a playful grin.
"Kai, what are you up to?" Haneul asks, raising an eyebrow.
Kai smirks. "Just want to thank you both properly."
Without further ado, he drops to his knees, his eyes gleaming with a mix of gratitude and mischief. Haneul and Daewon exchange a surprised glance, but they can't resist the allure of Kai's proposition.
Kai is surprised to find that he's not just performing this act out of gratitude; he's actually enjoying it, his own desire growing with each movement.
When both Haneul and Daewon are thoroughly satisfied, they help Kai to his feet.
Haneul cups Kai's face, looking at him with a mix of affection and amusement. "You're full of surprises, aren't you?"
Kai grins, wiping his mouth. "Just wanted to show my appreciation."
Daewon plants a delicate kiss on Kai's forehead.
"Thank you." Daewon says, his eyes shining with affection.
As they leave the shopping centre, Kai walks with a noticeable bounce in his step, feeling more connected to Haneul and Daewon than ever. The trio makes their way through the mall, their bags full of new clothes and gifts rustling with each step.
Haneul and Daewon exchange satisfied smiles, both feeling a sense of pride and contentment in having spoiled Kai. They reach the parking lot and head towards Daewon's sleek black car. Haneul opens the trunk, and they carefully place their numerous shopping bags inside.
"Kai, you look exhausted." Daewon says, opening the back door for him.
Kai yawns widely, unable to stifle it. "Yeah, I'm beat."
Haneul chuckles, ruffling Kai's hair affectionately. "Hop in, we'll get you home."
Kai climbs into the backseat, and as soon as he's settled, he feels the weight of the day's excitement begin to pull him into a comfortable drowsiness. Daewon and Haneul get into the front seats, and the car glides smoothly out of the parking lot.
Kai leans his head against the window, the cool glass soothing against his skin. The gentle hum of the car and the rhythmic motion quickly lull him into a deep, restful sleep.