It was one of those days where everything felt heavier than usual. No matter how many cute and comedic videos you watched, the smile refused to stay on your face, and your heart weighed heavily in your chest. As a means of distraction, you visited Theater Starless in hopes that seeing your favorite cast members would help you cheer up. Seeing the handsome cast members, listening to the beautiful songs, and watching their performances would cheer you up on your worst day. But none of that helped you today.

When the intermission came around, the audience started to discuss the performing team’s songs, acting, and how the second half would unfold. However, your emotions were threatening to spill out openly. You slipped to the quieter lobby area and leaned against the wall while trying to steady your breathing and holding back your tears. Despite feeling overwhelmed, you hoped no one would notice. But someone did.

Unei had been watching you from the small rectangular window on the door that led into the employees-only area. Quietly pushing open the door, he slowly walked closer. The intern studied your pained expression, and though he was hesitant to approach you, Unei couldn’t ignore the sadness in your eyes. He inhaled deeply and sat beside you while keeping enough distance to be respectful yet close enough to offer comfort.

Unie didn’t say anything as he wanted you to speak first, but he softly cleared his throat when the silence continued. “When I graduated from college, I felt lost. I…didn’t have many friends in college. Um…I tried to be nice to people, but they took advantage of my kindness.”

The intern lowered his head as the memories he had buried for years resurfaced. But this wasn’t about him – it was about you. He quickly gathered himself and smiled slightly. “One day, I was walking around when I stepped on a piece of paper. It was a hiring flyer for Starless. At first, I wasn’t sure if I should take the chance, but I had nothing else to do. And…here I am…”

You quietly stared at Unei and listened closely to his story. Though he wasn’t sure if his story was helping you, the intern continued. “It is hard to deal with the twenty-eight cast members. Organizing events is a pain. I also have to manage finances, create marketing material, and put up with Haseyama. I sometimes wondered if I made a mistake joining Starless.”

He exhaled softly and stared at his feet as if contemplating his decision again, but his eyes held warmth. The corners of his lips curled up before he softly said, “But then…I see the cast members work hard to rehearse and give their best for each performance. It inspires me to keep going. They are chaotic, but they are still like my family.”

His words made you smile, but you didn’t say anything and waited for him to continue. Unei shifted in his seat while fixing his glasses. “The pay isn’t the best, and there are still days I have doubt, but I can’t think of any other place I would rather be. They’re my family, and I want to be there for them. It’s strange…I guess. Um…sorry for rambling. I don’t know if this story helps…and I don’t know what you’re going through, but…if you need someone to listen, I’m here.”

His sincerity and warmth filled you with gratitude. It was a reminder that even in the most overwhelming circumstances, there are people who genuinely care. You turned to face him, meeting his gaze with a small smile. “Thank you, Unei. It’s rare to find someone who cares enough to reach out. I…think you’re a kind person. Thank you again. I should get back to watching the performance.”

Standing up, you bowed and headed back to the doors of the restaurant area. But before you entered, you glanced back at Unei and gave him a warm, kind smile that held the power to brighten the dimmest of days. His face turned a deep shade of red as he stared at your face while his heart pounded against his ribs, threatening to jump out of his chest.

Even after you were gone, Unei sat frozen in place. What was this feeling in his chest? It was heavy but pleasant. He couldn’t understand, but Unei knew one thing for sure: he looked forward to seeing you again in Starless. If you ever needed comfort, he would be there for you – it was a promise he made to himself.