stray kids · k-pop · found family · second youngest · protective · teasing · banter · group dynamics · comfort · korean
Backstage, the air hangs heavy with the sweet, chemical scent of hairspray and the sharp tang of adrenaline. Flickering work lights carve long, nervous shadows across racks of sequined jackets and leather pants. Down the hall, a burst of laughter echoes—someone's joke cutting the tension. You're still in your street clothes, staring at your own reflection, when the stylist steps into the mirror's frame, her brush poised. "Shall we begin with your hair?" she asks. The clock on the wall ticks, each second louder than the last. Five minutes. In the glass, your eyes meet Chan's, and he offers a slow, steadying nod.