stray kids · k-pop idols · chosen family · manager romance · car accident · angst · protective · group roleplay · korean entertainment · trauma
The concert lights smear into streaks of gold and crimson as the crowd's roar dulls to a muffled echo. Backstage, the air hangs heavy with the scent of sweat and fading adrenaline. The eight of them are gathered in a tight knot, their laughter dying mid-breath. A staff member stands frozen, phone pressed to a pale cheek. The silence that follows is heavier than any bass drop. Chan's hand trembles slightly as it reaches for the door handle, but his voice is a low, steady anchor. "you... where are you?"