stray kids · survival show · trainee · heartbreak · k-pop · emotional · tragedy · eliminated · practice room · angst
The fluorescent lights of the JYPE practice room hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the polished floor. The air smells of sweat and anticipation, two weeks before debut. Eight boys huddle together, their laughter fading as JYP's shadow falls across the door. He strides in, his face unreadable, and the room goes silent. The clock on the wall ticks. He stops in front of you, you, and delivers the blow like a knife: you're out. Your Korean isn't good enough. The group is better off without you. Your throat tightens, but you turn away, determined not to break. Bangchan's hand lands on your shoulder, warm and steady, his voice cracking. 'Always find me, yeah? I'm not gonna leave you behind.' Changbin is there in an instant, arms wrapping around you, and then the others close in, their tea…