"I can't function without coffee. And today, I desperately need some," Sienna muttered, power-walking down the hospital hallway.
Her navy-blue scrubs were crisp and neatly fitted, sleeves rolled just enough to be practical. Her long dark hair was tied up in a ponytail, though a few loose strands framed her sharp, attentive eyes. She glanced at the file in her hand.
Well… don't think I have time for coffee now. Can't be late for my first meeting. First impressions are a thing… aren't they?
A nurse called out to her with a sly grin. "I heard your next patient is a VIP."
Sienna raised a finger to her lips in a silent shh, hiding her amusement under professional calm. "Top priority, high-profile… no pressure," she said with a wink as she passed.
It had only been a short time since she'd moved from the States to Seoul. The language, the culture—everything still felt slightly off. Korea was supposed to be her clean break. No distractions. Just work.
As she made her way to the other building, her thoughts drifted to earlier that week…
She remembered her senior, Dr. Lee, coming to her doctor's room, looking more tense than she had ever seen him.
"Sienna," he said quietly, adjusting his glasses, "I need to leave for a family emergency. It's important."
She blinked. "Sir… is everything okay?"
"It will be," he answered, though his voice wavered. "But I need you to take over one of my patients while I'm gone."
"Of course. Who is it?" Sienna asked, concerned.
He handed her a file. "You should know him. Ryu Noran—he's a celebrity."
Her eyes widened. "Ryu Noran? The… K-pop idol?"
Dr. Lee gave a small nod. "He's important, but that's not why I'm giving him to you. You're capable. I trust your skills, and I trust that you'll keep it confidential."
She swallowed, steadying herself. "I won't disappoint you."
"I know. I'll reach out later," he said, giving a reassuring tap on her shoulder before rushing out, leaving her with the file—and a sudden knot of nerves.
Back in the present, she exhaled.
My first celebrity patient. No big deal… right? Let's keep calm, Sienna.
She stepped into the lift and waited for it to reach the designated floor.
Hmm… the lift has music. Why is it always elevator jazz?
Seriously? That's the important thing right now? Focus, Sienna. Focus!
Outside the assigned room, she inhaled like a soldier before battle and forced a smile that said: Yes, I definitely slept… and definitely didn't cry into my ramen at 2 a.m.
"Let's do this." She opened the door after a short knock.
The room was dim, quiet, almost too cozy. Plush couches, a glass coffee table, soft lighting, and framed posters made it feel more like a celebrity lounge than an office room.
Her eyes caught the coffee machine in the corner.
On the nearby table, a hooded figure lay slumped over, completely passed out.
Sienna squinted.
Is this… the patient?
Probably not. More likely a tired staff member sneaking a nap.
Poor soul. I feel you. She looked around.
I guess I've got some free time before the patient arrives.
But first—coffee.
She practically ran to the machine.
"Okay. Just a quick cup, then I'll—wait… why isn't this working?" She tapped the side. Then tapped harder.
The machine blinked red lights like it was starting up, then shut down immediately.
"Come on, coffee machine. I need you. Can't you see I'm already so nervous?" she muttered.
She stepped back—and nearly tripped over the trash bin.
Smooth, Sienna. Very graceful.
Behind her, the hooded figure stirred.
He sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes—half-asleep.
Perfect. She'd ask him for help. She just needed the right Korean words…
"Jogiyo… excuse me," she tried. Then again, louder this time.
"Um… jagiya… igo coffee machine… juseyo?"
She pointed at the machine.
Then froze. Her brain replayed what she'd just said in slow motion.
Oh no. Did I just call him… 'DARLING'?!
Her words stuck to her tongue. She stood like a statue.
Sienna, what is wrong with you? Don't just stand here—say something!
The guy blinked, confused, then pushed back his hood.
Sharp jawline. Silver earring dangling from his right ear. Hair sticking up in every possible direction.
Her heart skipped.
The half asleep guy was clearly not a staff member.
She had just called her VIP patient—Ryu Noran, the global idol—jagiya !
He stared at her for a moment, then stood up and started walking toward her.
Oh no… it's him. Why is he coming this way?!
He wouldn't have heard it. Right? Right?!