The show was already at its peak. It was only the first episode, but it had already hit the trending topics. It seemed this season promised plenty of romance—and, as always, a touch of chaos.
But not everything was sunshine and roses. The next participant was about to stir trouble.
— Then, let's call her! Romena Sanches — actress, model, and TV host, who recently ended her relationship with our dear Korean star, Kang Jimin. — The host smiled teasingly. — Rumor has it the breakup had a little something to do with a certain young actress! Is that true, Romena? Tell us!
— Good afternoon, everyone. — Romena flipped her hair and gave a confident stare. — Yes, it's true. Everyone knows Jimin and I dated for a year, and the reason we broke up was because Jimin-shi gives far too much priority to his female friendships. Right, Jimin? And you know that all too well, don't you, Lian Wei!?
Her words echoed across the studio, followed by a silence so sharp it felt like the air itself froze.
Jimin stepped forward, visibly irritated but keeping control. — Romena, this impulsiveness of yours is exactly why we broke up. You know how hate culture works, and I told you countless times that I see Wei Wei as my dongsaeng — the little sister I never had. I respect her, and I never had any intention beyond that. During our relationship, I never got involved with anyone — unlike certain people. But I'd rather not expose anything.
His tone hardened. — However, if necessary, I do have proof of my innocence — and of things that, if revealed, would put you in a very bad light. Wei Wei, I'm sorry you had to hear this.
The camera zoomed in on Lian Wei. She took a steady breath before responding, her elegance unshaken: — It's fine. I just want to make one thing clear: I've never been romantically involved with any colleague or anyone from the entertainment industry. Honestly, it's annoying to hear these kinds of accusations. My last relationship ended because I was betrayed by a close friend — not famous — who got involved with my ex. It hurt deeply, and I would never be the kind of person who breaks up a couple. Hearing someone say absurd things to cover their own mess is ridiculous and infuriating.
Her words hit like a bomb. The sweet, smiling girl stunned everyone with her firmness. Fans murmured among themselves, trying to guess who the fool was who dared to cheat on their diva.
Xiang Chen watched in silence, eyes narrowing, feeling hatred rise for the man who once dared to let her go.
Sensing the tension, the host stepped in. — Alright then… — he coughed. — Moving on! Our next guest is Miss Yuncheng 2024! Lin Fanxing — model, activist, and an inspiration after sharing her battle against breast cancer at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show! Welcome!
— Hello, hello! Good afternoon! — Fanxing greeted cheerfully. Tall, elegant, and confident, she radiated warmth.
— Fanxing, tell us: how was facing breast cancer?
She took a deep breath. — When I received the diagnosis, I was in shock. No one expects to hear something like that, and the word "cancer" carries a huge weight. It all started when I noticed a lump in my right breast and went to the doctor. After the diagnosis, I went through treatment, lost my hair, felt ugly, exhausted… but I survived. When Victoria's Secret called me back, I thought: I can't walk that runway without talking about this. People need to know. They need to be aware. And that's how everything happened.
— A triumph! — the host cheered. — Let's hear it for her, everyone!
The audience erupted in applause — even Xiang Chen clapped respectfully.
Then the next guest was announced: — And now, please welcome Yang Yan! The billionaire who decided to try dancing and acting — and charmed millions playing the ballet dancer Felix in "Butterflies"!
Yang walked in smiling. — It was fun, — he joked. — But honestly, I'd rather stick to High Five. K-pop is my life. Ballet is interesting, but definitely not for me. There were moments I just wanted to throw the leotard in the middle of the street and walk shirtless!
The audience burst into laughter.
— Between us, my friend, — the host teased. — I don't think the audience would complain. What do you girls say? Would you like to see that?
The cameras zoomed in on the guests. Lian Wei, blushing furiously, stayed silent — much to Xiang Chen's relief, who watched every tiny reaction of hers with jealous attention.
Romena, ever provocative, said: — Why not? I've been to a High Five concert. They dance shirtless all the time!
At that moment, Wei Wei whispered to Eun Ha, not realizing the mic caught it: — I think I'll buy a ticket one of these days…
And, to Mo Chen's despair, Eun Ha added: — I support you. If you want, I'll go with you!
The audience went wild. The host tried to contain his laughter, but before things got too out of hand, Jimin intervened: — Wei Wei, I thought you were shy! Oppa forbids you from watching that! As your honorary older brother, I have to protect your eyes!
She laughed: — Oppa, if you protect me like that, I won't be able to go to your concerts! You're always taking your shirt off! The difference is you're like a brother. As for High Five… I've never seen them live.
Yang Yan smirked. — That's easily fixed. I can introduce you to High Five and show you what you're missing.
— Oooohhh! — the audience roared.
It was the last straw for Xiang Chen. — It's not like actors don't take their shirts off too, right? — he said dryly. — Ever watched "Sexy Purple"?
He was referring to the film that earned him an Oscar for playing a male escort — in which he appeared shirtless in one scene.
The camera mischievously zoomed in as Wei Wei instinctively let her gaze drift down his body, swallowing hard. The audience noticed — and the studio exploded in giggles.
Jimin snorted softly. "Pervert…" he thought.
Eun Ha was dealing with her jealous boyfriend, while Yang Yan exchanged conspiratorial glances with the host.
Once again, the host stepped in. — Alright! Let's change the pace! Our next guest is Olympic athlete Xiao Naihe — also an actor in his spare time!
Xiao entered smiling. — Good afternoon, everyone!
— So, Mr. Athlete, — the host asked, — how are preparations for the 2026 Olympics?
— Full steam ahead! — he beamed. — Two days ago I wrapped up my last drama of the year, and now I'm fully focused on training. I'm here to promote "Beautiful Star" and enjoy a break before the Olympic marathon.
— Excellent! Finally a conversation that didn't end in drama! — the host laughed, earning loud laughter from the audience. — But we know what the audience really wants… come on in, Su Mi! Our blue-eyed Korean star, singer of the hit "Love Dream"!
— Good afternoon, everyone! Good afternoon, unnies! I missed you! — Su Mi said, hugging Wei Wei and Eun Ha.
— So, Blue Eyes, can we hear you sing Love Dream?
— Yes! — everyone shouted.
And so the introductions ended with Su Mi singing, followed by Jimin, while Yang Yan danced — closing the episode with sparkle, laughter, and… tension in the air.
✨ End of Chapter 2 ✨