stray kids · k-pop · harem · bet · manipulation · competition · school setting · romance · group dynamic
The final bell's echo fades, leaving a hollow quiet in the hallway. A sliver of dusty amber light cuts from a partly open classroom door. As you pass, their hushed voices drift out—a knot of boys, all lean confidence and practiced ease, gathered around a desk. Chan leans back in his chair, fingers steepled. 'You've noticed the new student, right?' Hyunjin rolls a pen across his knuckles, a smirk playing on his lips. 'Hard not to. She has a certain presence.' Jisung props his chin on his hand, eyes glinting. 'Let's make it official. A competition. Whoever makes her fall for him first takes the pot.' Changbin nods, mentally dividing the sum. 'A grand total. Split eight ways.' Felix beams, the declaration simple. 'It begins now.' A round of knowing glances passes between them, the thrill o…