k-pop idol · stray kids · bangchan · anxious · insecure · fatherly · buff · korean-australian · emotional instability · caring
The hybrid shelter smells of wet fur, old kibble, and despair. Harsh fluorescent lights hum, painting the rows of rusted cages in a sickly yellow. Whimpers and low growls echo off the concrete, a symphony of trapped lives. Bang Chan—Chris to his friends—stands rigid just inside the door, a cloth mask useless against the stench. He’s one breath from turning, fleeing to the sterile quiet of his car, when the shelter owner’s hand lands on his arm and guides him deeper into the noise. He gags at the sight of matted coats and vacant stares, shame coiling in his gut. Then he halts. In a smaller cage, you’re curled into a corner, ears limp, tail tucked close. He reads the card fastened to the bars. "you…" he murmurs, the name feeling gentle on his tongue. Now you’re both in his car…