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kaoriartss-blog · 2 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 21: “No Hiding”

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Comment: First of all, I want to clarify that English is not my first language. I speak Spanish, but I didn't want to deprive you of this story. I'll be using a translator, so it's possible that some phrases might get lost or be incomprehensible. Second, I thank you in advance for taking the time to read. I'll also be uploading the chapters to Wattpad in Spanish and to Ao3 in English.

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

---------------

The sun filtered gently through the windows of the house, and for the first time in a long time, there were no alarms or early rehearsals. Only the distant chirping of birds and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

The soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, painting the room with golden hues. Lia blinked slowly, still wrapped in the warmth of the sheets… and of Minho's body, sleeping soundly beside her.

He was on his back, one of his arms resting on her waist, his breathing calm and steady. His face, relaxed, had a peace she had rarely seen on him. No makeup, no cameras, no pressure. Just Minho.

Lia stared at him for a few minutes, recording in her mind every line of his face, the way his hair fell over his forehead, the way his chest rose and fell calmly. She gently stroked his arm, afraid to wake him. But he only mumbled something incomprehensible in his sleep and shifted a little closer.

She smiled.

Carefully, she slid out of bed, quietly picking up her clothes from the floor. She dressed silently, taking one last look before leaving the room. Her heart was still pounding, not from nerves... but from the certainty of what she had just shared with him.

She gently closed the door behind her.

And on the other side, Minho was still sleeping, his hand blindly searching for the empty space beside him, as if even asleep he still felt her close.

Lia headed toward the kitchen. There she found Seungmin and Felix, still in their pajamas, sitting side by side, sharing laughs while eating cereal from the same box.

"Good morning," Lia greeted, approaching.

Felix smiled broadly and opened his arms to her. She didn't hesitate and let him hug her, her body fitting perfectly into his.

"Today feels different, doesn't it?" he whispered against her hair.

"Yeah... like we can finally breathe," she replied, closing her eyes.

Seungmin stood up and offered her a cup of coffee.

"Did you sleep well?" he asked in his usual tone, but his smile was softer than usual.

"Yeah, very well..." she replied, giving him a meaningful look.

Just then, Jeongin walked in, his hair disheveled and his face like he'd just woken up. As soon as he saw her, he approached her without hesitation, placed a short kiss on her lips, and caressed her cheek as if it were the most normal thing in the world.

Felix laughed.

"Well, I guess good mornings will be like this from now on."

---

In the living room, Chan and Changbin were discussing ideas for the final songs on the album, but when he saw her enter, Chan stood up and walked toward her, placing a hand on her waist.

"Come here for a second," he said softly.

He led her to the makeshift studio they had at the end of the hallway, where a small light was still on. He closed the door behind them.

"I couldn't stop thinking about you last night," he said, his voice husky and intimate. Lia bit her lip, a little nervous about what she was going to say, but Chan held her cheeks.

"Not out of jealousy or possessiveness, but because I'm so happy you can feel that way about all of us. Honestly."

"I feel that way too," she whispered, leaning in close.

The kiss was short, more sweet than passionate, but full of emotion.

"And you're still my safe place," she told him, touching his chest.

Chan didn't respond immediately. He just looked at her. His dark eyes had that indecipherable glow that appeared when something moved him deeply.

His hands descended from her cheeks to her waist slowly, as if memorizing every curve beneath the soft fabric dress she wore. He pulled her firmly until her body gently crashed against his.

The second kiss was different.

Nothing sweet this time.

It was urgent, deep. Chan kissed her as if he was afraid the moment would dissolve in his grasp. His lips moved with suppressed hunger, his breath mingled with hers, and the heat between their bodies grew rapidly.

Chan's hands slid down her back, over her waist, then up to the side of her neck, where his fingers lingered for a few seconds, squeezing gently. Lia let out a small gasp against his mouth, which made him press his lips even harder, as if that sound had ignited something.

He gently cornered her against the studio wall, one hand resting beside her head while the other ventured under the fabric of her dress, grazing the back of her thigh just above her stocking.

Lia moaned softly against his mouth, her body instinctively seeking more contact.

Chan moved away just a few millimeters, his breathing heavy, his forehead resting against hers.

"God..." he whispered, "do you have any idea how you make me feel?"

Lia, her cheeks flushed, caressed his jaw, then moved down his neck, sliding beneath him.

He felt the edge of her shirt, feeling the warm skin beneath his fingers.

"I feel it too, Chan. All of this..."

They kissed again, this time slower, deeper. Their bodies moved in sync, their hips barely touching, sending an electric shiver through them both. The sound of their breathing, their wet, ragged kisses, filled the small space like underground music.

Chan's hand moved up Lia's back and under her hair, taking a bit of control as he leaned her face toward his. He kissed her as if she might break, but also as if she were everything he'd been waiting for.

Finally, they broke away with difficulty. Still entwined, their lips red and their eyes cloudy with suppressed desire.

"We should..." Lia began, too weak to finish the sentence.

Chan leaned his head on her shoulder and laughed softly, still not letting go.

"Yes, we should. But I don't want to."

She didn't either.

They stayed like that for a moment longer, as if time had given them a break. Then he kissed her temple tenderly, a silent caress of real affection beneath all the fire.

"Whenever you're ready," he whispered, "whatever it takes... I'll be here."

Lia hugged him tightly, still trembling a little inside. Because she knew it was true.

---

Little by little, the rest of them joined in the common room. Hyunjin, wearing an oversized T-shirt and damp hair, greeted Lia with a caress on her back. Seungmin no longer pretended when he looked at her as if the world had stopped. Jeongin sat down next to her without needing to make excuses. Minho appeared later, only to sit behind her on the couch and rest his chin on her shoulder, as if that closeness were a vested right.

"So what now?" Felix asked playfully. "Shall we make a kissing schedule or just wing it?"

Everyone laughed.

Chan stood up with his cup of tea.

"All I want is for us to remain honest. No secrets. If anyone feels uncomfortable, we'll talk about it. Okay?"

Everyone nodded.

Lia looked around and realized that, although their relationship escaped any norms, what they felt between them was real. Deep. Intimate. And now, visible.

"Thank you... for letting me be a part of this," she said softly, her eyes shining.

Changbin leaned closer and, without waiting any longer, kissed her in front of everyone. Tenderly, confidently. As they separated, everyone remained silent for a few seconds, until Jeongin broke the tension with, "Okay, now I want another turn."

And they burst into laughter.

------

The house was silent as Lia went down to the basement, her dress fluttering gently with each step. Only a warm light escaped from under the closed door to Chan's room.

She knocked just once. The door opened instantly.

He was there, leaning against the frame, a tight black T-shirt that showed off the muscles in his arms, and an expression so intense it made her catch her breath.

"I knew you'd come," he said quietly, his gaze scanning her from head to toe.

He led her in without another word, closing the door softly behind her. The room had a woody scent, mixed with Chan's perfume. The lights were dim, creating shadows that seemed to move with them.

"Were you thinking about me, baby girl?" he whispered, coming up behind her to wrap his arms around her.

Lia nodded, feeling his hot breath on her neck.

"All day."

Chan smiled against her skin and slid his hands slowly down her waist, up the curve of her ribs to stop just below her breast. He didn't touch her directly, but the promise was there, pulsing between their bodies.

"Good girl," he murmured. "I like it when you come when I can't get you out of my head."

She turned, her chest brushing against his, her pupils dilated. Chan took her chin in his, forcing her to look at him.

"Do you know what you're doing when you look at me like that, baby?"

"What?" Lia whispered, already losing control of her voice.

"You make me want to show you things. Make you feel things no one else can."

He kissed her then. It wasn't tender. It was possessive, deep. One of those kisses that steals the breath and shakes the soul. As he kissed her, he led her to the bed with slow, deliberate steps. His hands kept exploring, squeezing her waist, going down her hips, up her thighs through her dress.

He made her sit on the edge of the bed and positioned himself in front of her, holding her cheeks again, his thumb caressing her lower lip.

"You're going to be good for me tonight, aren't you?"

Lia nodded again, without thinking.

"Yes... Daddy."

Chan's smile was slow, dangerous.

"That's how I like it."

He leaned down to kiss her once more, his lips barely brushing hers, teasing her, making her want more. One of his hands caressed the inside of her thigh, moving up slowly without touching too much.

, maintaining the exact tension.

And just when it seemed everything was about to shatter in a breath, he stopped.

"Take off your dress," he ordered, softly but firmly. "I want to look at you."

Lia swallowed. Her heart was hammering in her chest.

She didn't do it right away. She looked into his eyes, silently challenging him. Chan raised an eyebrow.

"Are you going to make me repeat that, baby?"

She shook her head, her skin already burning beneath her clothes.

And she obeyed.

Chan didn't look away for a second.

The dress fell slowly from her shoulders, sliding like a caress until it tangled at her feet. Lia stood there, in front of him, her breath bated, her body exposed in the dim light that barely touched her skin.

Chan gazed at her as if she were a work of art. His eyes scanned every line of her figure with a mixture of adoration and controlled desire. But he didn't move immediately.

"You're beautiful," he said, his bow barely audible. "Mine for tonight. Only mine."

He crouched in front of her, his hands slowly moving up her bare legs, as if tracing a map with his fingertips. He kissed her knee, then higher, unhurriedly, as if savoring the effect he was having on her.

"You're trembling," he whispered.

"I can't help it."

Chan smiled proudly and sat up again. He gently pushed her onto the bed, his body leaning over hers, not crushing her, but surrounding her like a protective cage.

"You're so good to me... my baby girl," he said against her ear, his deep voice melting what remained of her self-control.

His lips traveled over her neck, her collarbone, her lingerie-covered chest, never straying too far, teasing more than satisfying. Lia's hands clung to his back, to her T-shirt, searching for anchors in the midst of that contained storm.

He caressed her masterfully, patiently, devotedly. As if each touch were a way of memorizing her. As if it were a privilege to have her like this, surrendered but firm, trembling and brave at the same time.

Long minutes passed between intense kisses, slow caresses, shared sighs. Without crossing that final line, but taking her to the edge again and again. As if he wanted to teach her not only what she could feel, but what it could mean to feel desired, protected, and powerful all at the same time.

When he finally held her against his chest, his fingers playing with strands of her sweat-damp hair, Lia felt as if the world had stopped turning.

"Are you okay, baby?" "He asked softly, his nose against her forehead.

"I'm... floating," she murmured with a small smile.

Chan covered her with his blanket, still holding her, and kissed the top of her head.

"Good girl. You were perfect tonight."

She laughed quietly, still vibrating inside.

"Only because you showed me how."

He held her a little tighter, closing his eyes with a peace he rarely allowed himself to feel.

Lia stirred beneath him, seeking more, asking without words.

Chan understood instantly.

"Are you sure?" he asked her in that low voice that seemed to rise from his chest, his eyes fixed on hers.

She nodded slowly, then more firmly.

"Yes. With you, yes."

The silence that followed was sacred.

Chan kissed her as if sealing a pact. An intimate, deep one, of body and soul.

The air thickened. The temperature rose. His body moved over hers with a mixture of fierce care and restrained passion. Every touch was precise. Every gesture, measured. As if he knew exactly how to make her feel safe and desired at the same time.

Their hands intertwined for a moment on the pillow. Their foreheads pressed together. Their breaths merging into each other.

And then, with a shared sigh that seemed to stop the world for a second… they joined.

There were no words. Only the silent melody of two bodies meeting for the first time, to the rhythm of something greater than themselves. Every movement was a confession, every sigh, a promise.

Lia felt something open inside her. Not just her body, but her heart. Because it wasn't just desire. It was belonging. It was surrender. It was Chan, and it was her, and it was everything they'd held back for weeks, now spilling out in soft, sweet, intense waves.

And Chan…

Chan didn't just touch her. He adored her.

He guided her with a mixture of firmness and tenderness, murmuring sweet words like "my baby," "so perfect," "only mine" between kisses.

Until the climax came like a silent, inevitable current. As if the entire world were reduced to that instant.

Afterward, they were entwined in the darkness, skin against skin, breathing into each other, still trembling.

"I never thought this... with you..." Lia whispered, still unable to fully articulate what she felt.

Chan caressed her gently, resting his forehead against hers once more.

"I know, baby. Me neither. But now there's no going back." She closed her eyes, her heart beating as if she'd found a new home.

And so, in the warmth of that hidden room, with their bodies exhausted and their souls exposed, they knew something had changed forever.

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kaoriartss-blog · 6 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 20: "Class in Session"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

-------------------------

The Knowing Brothers set was prepared with more energy than ever. Cameras were rolling, and the staff couldn't hide their excitement at having the full Stray Kids group and Lia in the studio. The chairs in the classroom were packed, and the excitement was contagious.

Kang Ho-dong was the first to speak as soon as they entered:

"Woah! Today we have not one, not two, but nine idols in the room! Welcome, Stray Kids and Lia!"

"Annyeonghaseyo!" everyone greeted with a synchronized bow, although Han stumbled a little, prompting immediate laughter.

Lee Soo-geun looked at them mischievously.

"Lia-ssi, you're new here. What's it like living with these eight walking chaos?"

Lia laughed, locking eyes with Minho and Felix.

"It's like living on a 24-hour comedy show. They don't let me get bored."

Heechul chimed in with a raised eyebrow.

"And haven't you fallen in love with any of them?"

There was a pause. Everyone laughed nervously as Seungmin faked a cough, Hyunjin hid his face behind his notebook, and Changbin leaned back dramatically.

"Next question!" Chan joked, causing a burst of laughter.

---

First test of the day: "Who knows Lia best?"

The screen showed several questions prewritten by Lia, and the kids had to answer on whiteboards.

First question: My favorite Korean snack?

"Tteokbokki!" most wrote, except for Jeongin, who put honey butter chips.

"Correct!" Lia shouted, surprised. "Jeongin knew!"

"Because you steal them every time I eat them," he replied with a triumphant smile.

Second question: What's the hardest part of me to accept?

Everyone here became more serious.

Felix wrote: Your tendency to push yourself too hard.

Hyunjin: Your insecurity about fitting in.

Chan, without saying anything, wrote: Your voice... when it's the most beautiful thing you have.

Lia looked at them, visibly moved.

"They're all good... but Chan's touched my heart."

Random talent round.

"Now everyone will show off a hidden talent!" Heechul announced.

Minho showed how he could imitate a cat meowing while dancing.

Han beatboxed video game sounds.

Lia did some Taekwondo moves and demonstrated how high she can kick even in high heels, bringing everyone to their feet.

"That's going to break the internet!" Soo-geun exclaimed.

---

Final Moment: Secret Letters

Before the show ended, the hosts gave everyone a piece of paper.

"We want each of you to write a line for someone in the group... but don't say who it's for."

Lia, after some thought, wrote:

"Thank you for looking at me like I'm the only miracle in your day."

Changbin wrote:

"I hug you silently every time I see you hesitate."

Hyunjin:

"Your eyes shine brighter when you laugh. And I know because I watch them all the time."

The hosts read some of them aloud, leaving the audience and viewers with a mixture of laughter and sighs.

---

As the episode closed, the host summarized:

"We've never seen a group with such a strong connection. Not just musically, but humanly!"

Lia spoke up:

"I think that's why this album is called Connections. Because it's who we are. And what we want to share."

The van taking them home was unusually quiet. It wasn't an awkward silence, but one filled with thoughts, stifled laughter, and meaningful exchanges of glances.

Lia was leaning on Seungmin's shoulder, who looked at her out of the corner of his eye with a small smile. Across from them, Hyunjin absentmindedly played with Lia's fingers as their hands briefly met while passing her a bottle of water. Changbin, sitting next to her, watched her breathing become calmer and calmer as she closed her eyes.

"Are you okay?" he murmured in her ear, his voice hoarse from the tiredness and excitement of the day.

"Yeah... I'm just happy," Lia whispered, her fingers searching for his. They intertwined naturally.

---

Upon arriving home, some went straight to their bedrooms, but others stayed in the living room, unwilling to let the day end just yet.

Felix plopped down on the couch next to Lia.

"Did you notice how we were all on edge during the entire show?" he asked, lowering his voice.

"Yeah. It's not like it used to be..." she replied, looking him straight in the eyes.

He watched her for a few more seconds, and without saying anything, he caressed her cheek with the back of his hand, then leaned in and placed a slow kiss on her forehead, leaving her skin prickling and her heart fluttering.

"I'm going to sleep before I do anything more daring," he joked softly and stood up with a mischievous smile.

---

In the kitchen, Jeongin was making himself some tea when Lia came in looking for water. As soon as they looked at each other, the atmosphere changed.

"Did you have fun today?" he asked, turning to her with his usual calm tone, but a more intense gaze.

"A lot. I felt... free."

He nodded, approaching with his steaming cup.

"What if this freedom... also means I can do this?" he asked, his voice barely audible, letting his hand rest gently on her waist.

Lia looked at him, her eyes searching for any doubt, but found only tenderness. She leaned toward him, and this time she was the one who kissed him. Soft, slow, and with a connection that burned without haste.

As they broke away, Jeongin rested his forehead against hers.

"I'll have sweet dreams tonight."

---

In the hallway, Lia went to get something from her room, but stopped when Chan came out of his own.

"Hey," he said, his voice deep. "Can't you sleep?"

"Not yet," she replied, moving closer.

Chan took her hand and silently led her to the small rehearsal room, the lights off, only the blue illumination of the hallway seeping through the door.

The background music came from her phone, something instrumental and soft.

Without words, they began to sway slowly to the melody, their bodies pressed together. Their hands explored each other confidently, unhurriedly. Chan's forehead rested on hers, their noses touching.

"You know?" he whispered. "I like it when we don't have to talk. Just... feel."

The kiss they shared was different. Deeper. As if sealing a silent commitment between the two.

---

Later, as Lia walked toward her room, a door opened.

Minho was there, wearing a light robe, staring at her silently. She stopped, her eyes connecting with his. Without needing words, he offered her his hand.

They just lay together in his bed, side by side, their bodies touching intimately but serenely. Minho silently stroked her hair.

"I just wanted to sleep with you... like this. Feeling you real."

Lia snuggled into his chest and let herself be carried away by that feeling of warmth, of belonging.

She settled onto the mattress, facing him, still dressed in her light pajamas. Minho, his robe open just enough to reveal her chest, watched her with a mixture of tenderness and restrained desire. They didn't need to speak; the silence that surrounded them spoke louder than any words.

Their fingers met between the sheets, gently intertwining. Minho slowly slid his hand up her arm, to her shoulder, caressing her as if her skin were fragile. His eyes remained fixed on hers, as if asking for permission with every gesture.

When he kissed her, it was with overwhelming sweetness. A warm, slow touch that deepened as their hearts raced. Lia responded fearlessly, opening her lips to receive him, feeling his breath mingle with hers. Their bodies moved closer instinctively, as if they were made to fit together.

Minho sat up slightly to caress her cheek with the back of his hand. His fingers trembled slightly, not from hesitation, but from suppressed emotion.

"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

"Yes," Lia said with a small smile, taking his hand and placing it on her waist. "I want this. I want to be with you, like this."

The air grew thicker, charged with a desire they could no longer hide, nor would they hide. Minho kissed her again, this time more intensely. His lips descended along her neck, leaving a trail of heat. His patient hands began to slide the strap of Lia's blouse down, caressing her exposed shoulder. She shivered, not from the cold, but from anticipation.

When their bodies were finally naked, there was no shame, only a sense of mutual surrender. Minho watched her for a few seconds, his breath ragged, admiring her with a mixture of wonder and reverence. Lia caressed his face, guiding him toward her.

"I can't believe Hyunjin was the first... I'm so jealous..." he murmured against her skin, leaving soft kisses along the path he traced with his lips. "But now, you're all mine."

He descended down her body with slow kisses, caressing her with his lips and hands. Lia arched her back under his attentions, her fingers clutching the sheets as he patiently explored every corner.

"You're beautiful," he murmured against her skin, unable to take his eyes off her. Lia felt embarrassed; Minho's gaze was quite intense, so she covered her eyes with her hands. "Don't hide, look at me."

"Minho~"

When she called his name in a sigh, he kissed her lips again, carefully settling between her legs.

His plan was to prepare her properly, but he felt he couldn't hold back any longer; just seeing her like that was already almost over the edge.

Their gaze met one last time as he took a small silver envelope from the nightstand and placed it inside her. And when Minho entered her, he did so Slowly, taking the time to feel her, to allow her to feel him. Lia exhaled deeply, clinging to his shoulders, their bodies merging in a gentle, almost meditative sway.

They moved with a rhythm that didn't obey urgent desire, but rather the silent love they had been building. Each moan was drowned in a kiss, each caress answered with another, as if writing a new language on each other's skin.

The climax came like a warm wave, enveloping them at the same time, their bodies trembling and their lips still joined. Minho hugged her tightly, breathing deeply against her neck, and Lia said nothing, just closed her eyes and allowed herself to be enveloped by his warmth.

They remained that way, still without separating, until their breathing calmed. Minho slowly stroked her back while she played with the strands of her hair.

"I didn't know it could feel like this..." he murmured, kissing her collarbone.

"Nor I..." Lia said, her voice still shaky but filled with peace.

And that night, they didn't sleep at all. They lay between whispers and silence, caressing each other under the sheets, as if time had stopped just for them.

31 notes · View notes

kaoriartss-blog · 9 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 19: "Green Light"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

----------------------------

It was a sunny morning when the notification lit up the screens of thousands of fans around the world:

> [JYP ENTERTAINMENT – OFFICIAL STATEMENT]

> “ConNextions”, the first collaborative album between Stray Kids and solo artist Li∆, will be released next month. This project marks a new chapter in both artists’ careers, blending their talent, vision, and emotions into twelve unforgettable songs. Get ready for a unique musical experience!

The internet exploded.

#ConnectionsAlbum

#LiaXStrayKids

#12SongsOfUs

All of them became trending topics within minutes. The post racked up over 1 million likes in its first hour.

Lia, sitting in the living room with her laptop on her lap, watched in silence as she refreshed the page. Jeongin arrived with two bowls of cereal.

—You’re reading the comments, aren’t you?

—I can’t stop —she said with a nervous smile—. Look at this...

> “Lia’s voice with 3Racha’s raps is going to be dynamite!”

“This is a dream come true.”

“I can’t wait for ‘Shared Dreams’, I already cried just from the title.”

Jeongin sat beside her and rested his head on her shoulder.

—The world is ready. You did it, Lia. We did it.

---

Hours later, the studio was filled with the pulsing rhythm of "Echoes of the Past". Han and Changbin were in the booth recording harmonies for the bridge while Lia was fine-tuning some lines with Chan at the piano.

—What if we lower this part by half a tone? —she suggested, humming—. That way it blends into the chorus emotionally without overpowering the beat.

Chan looked up, impressed.

—Who taught you to think like a producer?

—Does being born among musicians count?

—That counts triple —he replied, tapping out the rhythm on the keyboard—. What you just suggested is going to change the entire impact of the song.

Lia nodded, smiling with confidence. In that room, she wasn’t a guest. She was a creator.

---

Later that day, Chan gathered everyone for a video call with the JYP team. Sitting in the studio with their laptops open, they listened attentively to the proposals:

—We’re receiving a lot of requests —one of the managers said—. Inkigayo, M Countdown, Music Bank... even Knowing Brothers wants to do a special edition with all of you.

—And Weekly Idol again? —Han asked excitedly.

—Yes, this time to play with the songs from the album.

Hyunjin snapped his fingers.

—This time I won’t let them beat me in karaoke!

Amid performance and interview proposals, something unexpected came up.

—We’ve been contacted by KCON Japan and Los Angeles. They want Stray Kids and Lia to be the headlining artists for the closing event.

A tense silence filled the room before Changbin said:

—We’re taking “Connections” to the world?

Lia swallowed hard, her eyes welling up.

—We’re going to share all of this with anyone who wants to listen.

After the meeting, everyone took a short break in the garden. Jeongin and Felix were trying to teach Seungmin an improvised choreography for the TikTok challenge of "Wings of Freedom", but he was resisting completely.

—I’m a vocal! Let me live! —he shouted between laughs, running away from Felix who tried to correct his steps.

Meanwhile, Lia sat under the canopy with a notebook. She drew a spiral turning into a flower and wrote beneath it:

> Creating with others is risking your heart.

But it’s also finding it in new places.

She thought of the long nights of practice, the arguments over arrangements, the laughter after failed takes. And she felt that she no longer sang just for herself. She sang for all of them.

---

That night, they posted the first teaser image of the album: a black-and-white group photo, taken during the filming of "Shared Dreams", with everyone looking toward the horizon. The caption simply read:

> “12 songs. One path. One shared heart.”

#Connections

The comments section filled up in seconds:

> “I’m already crying and I haven’t even heard anything.”

“Thank you for this. Thank you for so much art together.”

“Li∆ has found her place. And what a place it is.”

---

After the post, Lia retreated to the garden with Seungmin, who had brought his acoustic guitar.

—Are you ready for what’s coming? —he asked, tuning the strings.

—I don’t know if I’m ready… but I’m excited. —She looked at him tenderly—. I have eight guys holding me up. How could I not be brave?

He smiled, leaned in, and gave her a soft kiss on the forehead.

—Then let’s go. The world has already given the green light.

---

That same night, Lia couldn’t sleep. The hype of the new album and the upcoming work kept her awake. She couldn’t stop thinking about how everything they were achieving together was part of a dream.

Little five-year-old Narim Lia would be so proud. The girl who used to watch her favorite stars on TV and imagined herself performing on a big stage.

That thought brought a few tears of joy.

Her phone buzzed—messages from her parents and siblings in the family group chat:

> “We read the news, congratulations sis.”

“I expect an exclusive signed edition for my little sister collection.”

“Can’t wait to hear the songs, they’re going to be a hit. Congrats 💗”

“Congratulations daughter, we’re proud of you.”

All those messages made her heart swell. The tears came freely, but her face was lit with a huge smile. She felt fulfilled.

Without her family’s support, she would never have gotten to where she was now. They were her pillar and the guiding star on her path.

Still with tears in her eyes, Lia set her phone aside and wiped her cheeks with her sleeve. Her heart pounded, filled with that soft weight of happiness that comes after giving it your all.

That’s when someone gently knocked at the door. Three soft taps.

—Are you awake? —Hyunjin.

She hesitated a second, then answered in a low voice:

—Yes… come in.

Hyunjin stepped in quietly, as if respecting the intimate air around her. He wore a loose white t-shirt and thin cotton pants. His curls framed his face, and when he saw her, his eyes filled with concern.

—You were crying.

—I’m okay —she said with a small smile, though her eyes were still wet—. Just… happy.

Hyunjin sat beside her on the bed. He didn’t say anything for a moment. Just looked at her, with that expression he had like he was seeing a painting that moved him.

—Sometimes —he whispered—, I think you came straight out of a poem. Like someone wrote you in golden ink, just for this moment.

Lia let out a quiet laugh, looking down, a little overwhelmed by how he saw her.

—You know? —he continued, taking her hand—. I always imagined love would feel like this… quiet, but so powerful it changes you before you even notice.

Then he kissed her. A slow, soft kiss, almost reverent. As if he kissed her not out of desire, but from the soul’s need. His lips met hers with unhurried precision, but with infinite depth.

When they lay down, the world seemed to fall away. The room became a blank canvas, and their bodies, soft brushstrokes.

Hyunjin undressed Lia with a tenderness that felt choreographed. Not from urgency, but as if he wanted to memorize every inch of her skin, every breath she took. He looked at her with awe, like a living artwork only he was privileged to witness.

—You’re light —he murmured, tracing her collarbone with his fingertips—. Everything about you shines, even when you think you’re broken.

She let herself be guided, wrapped in his way of loving—intense, yet gentle. Hyunjin made love like someone writing verses with his body, with slow, deep movements trembling from emotion. Every caress was a confession, every kiss a new vow.

Their hips met with delicate rhythm, as if dancing to a secret beat. His fingers intertwined with hers as he looked into her eyes, whispering her name like a prayer.

—I don’t know how this happened… but I’m here. With you. And I don’t want to be anywhere else —he said, voice shaking.

When they climaxed, it was like an internal burst of light. Not explosive—enveloping. She felt it in her chest, like her heart was overflowing, and he looked at her with eyes full of tears that never fell.

Afterward, he held her as if she’d vanish if he let go. He kissed her forehead, her cheek, her fingers… and finally placed his hand over her heart.

—This is my favorite place —he whispered—. This is where I want to stay.

That night, they slept wrapped in the warm haze of love turned art. And when Lia woke up the next morning, Hyunjin was still holding her, a soft smile on his lips. As if he was still dreaming of her.

---

The next morning, the sun was already high when Lia opened her eyes, still wrapped in the warmth of the sheets. The room was bathed in soft light filtering through the curtains. Beside her, Hyunjin was still asleep, curled up like a child, messy hair on the pillow and one hand resting near hers, his long limbs tangled around her smaller body.

For a few seconds, she just watched him. His breathing was slow, his face so serene it looked sculpted. Seeing him like that—so fragile, so human—stirred something in her chest.

She gently slid her hand across his cheek, brushing away a lock of hair. She didn’t want to wake him. Not yet.

She got up silently, picked up her clothes, and dressed slowly. The mirror reflected a soft smile on her face—different. It wasn’t euphoria or confusion. It was something deeper, quieter. A different kind of peace.

When she left the room, the hallway was completely silent. It was still early, and no one else seemed to be awake.

Lia went to the kitchen, made herself a cup of coffee, and sat at the counter, holding the mug with both hands. The night before came back to her in flashes: his words, his hands, his voice trembling as he said he wanted to stay in her heart. It didn’t feel real—but there was no doubt either. It had been real. A moment that belonged only to them.

Hyunjin appeared shortly after, hair damp and wearing a hoodie too big for the weather. He saw her sitting there, and his eyes lit up immediately.

—Good morning —he said in a sleepy voice.

—Good morning.

He approached slowly, as if afraid to break the invisible thread connecting them since the night before. When he reached her, he didn’t ask anything, didn’t say anything else. He just hugged her from behind and rested his chin on her shoulder.

—Are you okay? —he murmured.

—Yeah —she replied, turning her face slightly to brush his—. And you?

Hyunjin nodded, closing his eyes for a moment.

—Last night was like a painting I don’t want to hang on any wall. I want to carry it with me, here —he said, touching his chest.

Lia laughed softly, pressing her forehead against his.

—You’re always so dramatic.

—You make me that way —he replied, now smiling too—. Do you think we can keep going like this… without making everything complicated?

She didn’t answer right away. Not because she had doubts, but because she was feeling too much.

—I don’t know. But I want to try. If you do too.

Hyunjin kissed her then. Not with desire, but with the gentleness of someone confirming something he already knew.

—I always do, when it’s about you.

The sound of footsteps coming up the stairs made them slowly pull apart. It was probably Chan, in search of coffee.

They looked at each other for a moment. Co-conspirators. Guarding their secret.

And so the day began, with the memory of the night still pulsing through their bodies… and the silent promise that it wouldn’t be the last time.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #poly stray kids #stray kids fanfic #stray kids smut #stray kids #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 12 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 18: “The Twelve Stars”

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

----------------------------

The sky over Seoul was clear that morning, the perfect weather for a day out. Lia finished tying the laces on her boots while the boys paced around the living room, checking backpacks, caps, sunglasses, and masks. The excitement in the air was almost tangible.

Chan had come up with the idea the night before.

—“Nothing too obvious. Just go out, walk a bit, grab something to eat. Like normal people. We deserve it.”

Hyunjin, thrilled, had nearly jumped off the couch—if Changbin hadn’t been sitting on his legs.

—“A secret group date! I love it!”

They left in two separate vans to avoid suspicion, with their trusted staff trailing them at a safe distance. Their destination: an urban park in a less busy area, with small food stalls, quiet cafés, and an artificial river running through the center. There was a craft fair there they wanted to visit.

As soon as they arrived, Seungmin bought ice cream for everyone and handed it out carefully, as if it were treasure. Jeongin took a selfie with Lia… without showing their faces. Just two hands holding identical ice cream cones.

—“Memories for us,” he whispered, gently bumping her shoulder.

They walked in small groups to avoid drawing attention:

Hyunjin, Minho, and Felix were taking pictures of the scenery, the dogs walking by, and occasionally, of Lia—when no one was looking.

Chan, Changbin, and Han talked about how amazing it would be to write a song about this day.

Lia was in the center of it all, drifting between one group and another, sharing smiles, brushes of hands, and knowing glances.

At one point, while sitting on a long bench by the river, Felix leaned down to tie his shoe… and took the opportunity to press a kiss to Lia’s hand. She blushed and looked away just as Changbin offered her a sip of his drink with a mischievous smile.

—“Are you sure you prefer the juice... or me?”

Hyunjin, who had been watching them, leaned back behind her.

—“They’re cheating. I brought sweets just for you. Only for you.”

Lia laughed, overwhelmed by the sweetness.

Later, they found a small open-air gallery with drawings by local artists. Most were expressive portraits. Minho walked up to one with her, showing a couple holding hands beside two felines, their faces hidden by city lights.

—“You know what I see there?” he said, lowering his voice. “A future. Even if the world can’t fully see it, we know what’s there.”

Lia leaned on his shoulder without saying a word, but she understood completely.

After walking a few more hours, they ate at a discreet restaurant with private rooms. Sitting on tatami mats, laughing at every little thing, everyone relaxed. Han suggested a small game:

Guess which part of the song belongs to whom.

Each person had to describe a verse, gesture, or recording moment they got assigned through an app. The answers turned into a mix of heartfelt praise and emotional confessions.

—“When you recorded that bridge, Lia,” Chan said, locking eyes with her, “I knew we were creating something big. Something real.”

Lia held his hand just as Jeongin touched her foot under the table, and Felix rested his head on her lap with a silent smile.

On the way back home in the van, they sat closer than usual. Piled together, sharing earbuds, some half-asleep. Lia closed her eyes as Changbin gently stroked her hair and Seungmin held her hand.

And so, in the secrecy of anonymity, they lived a date none of them would ever forget.

---

After that group date filled with laughter and hidden caresses, the energy at home became even more special. The atmosphere, though relaxed, was charged with excitement: all the album demos were officially finished.

In the living room, the twelve song titles were written on an improvised whiteboard Han had hung up, surrounded by little doodles drawn by Hyunjin: hearts, stars, music notes, even a cartoonish portrait of Lia with wings and a microphone. The title “The Twelve Stars” was written in the center in big letters. It felt like a personal tribute to the journey they had all experienced.

Chan, with his laptop on his lap, leaned back on the couch.

—“Everything’s here,” he said, clicking on the final folder. “Twelve songs, twelve pieces of us. This album… is going to make a mark.”

Lia, sitting cross-legged on the floor, smiled as she read the titles aloud softly.

—“Crossed Paths”… I didn’t expect it to hurt so much to write that one. —Jeongin, beside her, gently brushed her back.

—“Maybe because you wrote it with your heart. And that’s something you can feel.”

The boys began talking one by one about which song had affected them the most.

—“Reflections was hard, wasn’t it?” Minho murmured, looking at Lia. “But I think that was when we all understood each other the most.”

Hyunjin gave a thumbs-up as he adjusted his hair.

—“Recording Shadows and Lights really made me think. Are we light? Are we shadow? I think we’re both.”

Seungmin, holding a glass of juice, looked around at each of them.

—“Shared Dreams is my favorite. It’s… comforting. Like us.”

Felix sat next to Lia and offered her a candy he had hidden in his pocket.

—“To celebrate you finished two solo songs.”

—“And you helped with both,” she reminded him, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek.

Later, while they were all cooking together for a special dinner, the air was filled with music: Jeongin hummed Endless Adventure while chopping vegetables, Hyunjin danced to Heartbeats, and Han was beatboxing behind him. Minho prepared rice with a level of focus that looked professional, though every now and then he threw Lia a knowing glance.

—“This feels like a goodbye,” she said while helping Changbin set the table.

—“It’s not a goodbye,” he corrected her. “It’s a beginning. The album is done, yes, but now comes the real world: the release, the fans, the stage… The best is yet to come.”

Once they were all seated at the table, surrounded by warm dishes, laughter, and spontaneous photos, Chan raised his glass.

—“I want to make a toast. To the songs that challenged us, the lyrics that broke us, and the connection we now share. Twelve songs. One story. Our story.”

—“Cheers!” they all shouted.

Later, when the plates were empty and their bodies were half-asleep on couches and carpets, Lia walked through the house, stopping in front of the whiteboard. She stared at it for a long time, until Chan came up behind her.

—“Do you know which one I think is my favorite song?” he asked.

—“Which one?”

—“The one we haven’t written yet.”

She smiled, and without saying another word, leaned into his chest as he wrapped his arms around her.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids #skz ot8 x reader #poly skz x reader #skz poly x reader #skz x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 13 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 17: "Between Glances and Gestures

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The next morning, the house was slowly waking up. Some members were still asleep, others wandered into the kitchen in search of coffee. Lia appeared with her hair slightly damp, fresh out of the shower, and found Minho in the kitchen making toast, as if nothing had happened.

“Good morning,” she said softly, trying to sound casual.

“Good morning,” Minho replied without turning around, a small smile on his lips. He handed her a cup of hot tea—her favorite.

Lia accepted it, looking at him with an expression somewhere between amused and grateful. That quiet complicity didn’t go unnoticed by Seungmin, who was sitting at the table, half-asleep, with a bowl of cereal.

“Since when is Minho so nice in the morning?” he mumbled, raising an eyebrow.

“Shhh, let him be. It makes me feel special,” joked Lia, taking a sip of her tea as she sat beside him.

Hyunjin appeared seconds later, watching how Minho also handed one of the freshly made toasts directly to Lia.

“Did I miss something last night?” he asked mischievously, dropping into a chair like he was melting.

“Nothing you need to know,” Minho replied in his usual neutral tone, though his eyes briefly sought Lia’s. She couldn’t help but blush slightly, fiddling with the spoon in her cup.

Felix, who had just walked in, let out a little giggle when he saw them.

“You know what? You smell like romantic tension,” he said, opening the fridge.

“Felix, shut up,” Lia and Minho said in unison, which sparked laughter throughout the kitchen.

Chan came down next, looking sleep-deprived with his phone in hand. He saw the scene and simply smiled to himself. He didn’t say anything, but he clearly noticed the shift. He’d seen that kind of connection before—and he was okay with it.

The rest of the day went by normally: short practice sessions, lounging on the couch watching a movie, and plenty of group jokes. But now and then, when Minho and Lia locked eyes or their hands brushed while passing a cup or sitting next to each other on the floor, something lingered in the air. A different kind of spark. The kind of thing everyone notices—without saying a word.

---

Two days later, the morning began like any other: soft sounds from the coffee machine, bare feet on wooden floors, sleepy voices. But for Lia, it wasn’t just another day.

She was sitting on the patio, still in pajamas, when her phone vibrated. A notification from her agency lit up the screen:

“Confirmed: You are officially the new global ambassador for Yves Saint Laurent. The public announcement will follow shortly. Congratulations.”

She sat in silence for a few seconds, blinking like she couldn’t believe it. Then, a joyful scream burst from her lips.

“I DID IT!”

Hyunjin, who was watering some plants by the pool, nearly dropped the watering can.

“What happened?!”

Lia jumped to her feet, showing him her phone as she ran over.

“YSL! I got it! Global ambassador!”

Hyunjin’s eyes widened, then he broke into a bright smile.

“NO WAY! That’s incredible! That’s huge, Lia!”

Felix stepped onto the terrace just in time to hear that.

“What? What did I just hear? YSL?”

The others began to appear one by one, all awakened by the shouting and excitement. In minutes, the news spread through the house like wildfire. Chan, Changbin, Jeongin, Seungmin, Minho, Han... they were all there, surrounding her, hugging her, lifting her in the air like they had all won the prize together.

Chan was the first to speak with a more serious tone, but full of pride.

“This is huge, Lia. We knew it. We knew you’d make it.”

Overwhelmed by all the love, Lia brought a hand to her chest, her eyes shining.

“Thank you. I couldn’t have done it without you. Truly.”

In the middle of the celebration, without thinking much, Changbin stepped forward with a proud smile, held her face in his hands, and gave her a short but incredibly tender kiss. A pure reflex of emotion, affection, and pride.

The silence that followed lasted barely three seconds.

Jeongin was the first to break the tension.

“...Well, that was unexpected.”

Felix laughed out loud.

“Oh please! We were all thinking about it.”

Lia, slightly blushing but happy, turned toward the boys.

“Is everything okay?”

Chan looked around at them all, wearing that wise expression he sometimes had.

“I think it’s time we talk.”

They moved to the living room, sitting in a circle—some on the floor, others on the couches. It was an intimate, honest atmosphere.

Chan spoke first.

“It’s been almost three months since we started this project. And in that time… so much has happened. We’ve laughed, cried, worked hard, and grown close in ways none of us expected. I’m not blind. We all feel something for you, Lia. In different ways, with different colors… but it’s there. And I think we all know it.”

Lia lowered her gaze for a moment, gently touching one of her bracelets.

“I feel things too. For all of you. And it scares me… because I don’t want to hurt you. I don’t want to cause pain.”

Han leaned toward her.

“You’re not hurting us. You’re letting us be part of something real. We’re all adults here. And if we’re going to move forward, it has to be with honesty.”

Minho, with his usual calm, added:

“No one’s forcing you to choose. But we do want to know if you’re willing to try. Together. As a team. As… something different. Unconventional, but real.”

Hyunjin looked around at the others.

“This might sound crazy, but... I’ve never felt this kind of connection with a group of people. And I can’t imagine stepping away from what we’re building.”

Seungmin, who had stayed quiet, still processing—he’d just woken up ten minutes earlier—took a more serious tone as well.

“Of course we’ll need to talk a lot. Set rules. Listen to each other. But I’m not scared if you’re on board.”

Felix chimed in too.

“I just want to keep shining with you. With all of you.”

Jeongin let out a soft, nervous laugh.

“I thought this would be harder… but it all makes sense when I’m with you guys.”

They all looked at Lia, giving her space. And she, with tears and laughter mixed in her eyes, spoke in a trembling voice:

“I never imagined finding something like this. I didn’t think it was possible. But if you’re all willing… then so am I. I want to try. With you.”

The silence was broken by Han’s shy applause, followed by soft laughter and then hugs. It wasn’t a perfect moment. It was human. Real. Full of affection and understanding.

That night, they had an improvised dinner. They ate in pajamas, sitting on the living room floor, sharing stories, hugs, and jokes. They sang for Lia again to celebrate her YSL achievement, toasted with apple juice, and ended the night watching old videos of their first practices together.

And even though nothing was one hundred percent defined, everyone knew they had crossed an important threshold. They wouldn’t be just any band. They wouldn’t be just colleagues. They were something unique. A bond born of music, challenges… and now, of love.

---

The sun was barely rising when Lia opened her eyes. The first thing she noticed was the silence—and then the warmth. Turning, she found Felix fast asleep beside her in bed, hugging one of the decorative pillows she always left lying around. He’d insisted on staying close “just in case you get anxious after last night’s talk,” he’d said. And there he was, at peace, his hair a mess, one leg hanging off the edge.

Lia smiled, got out of bed, and leaned down to kiss him softly on the cheek before leaving the room.

In the kitchen, Jeongin and Seungmin were having toast with jam and playing a guessing game using ridiculous gestures. When they saw her walk in, Seungmin casually reached out and pulled her down by the sweater to sit between them, like it was the most natural thing in the world. Jeongin offered her a piece of toast with a knowing smile.

“Today you sit between us. No discussion,” he said, half-serious, half-playful.

Lia laughed, settling in. Everything felt... warmer. Closer.

One by one, the boys appeared. Han, eyes still closed, came straight to her, sat on the floor next to her, and rested his head on her leg.

“Good morning, sweetheart…” he mumbled sleepily. No one looked weirded out. No one joked.

Hyunjin brought her a flower he’d picked from the garden, a beautiful daisy that had clearly just bloomed.

“For you. You seem even brighter than usual today.”

Minho passed behind her and gently ran a hand down her back before sitting with his cereal.

“Did you sleep well?”

Later, while they were in the studio adjusting tracks, Changbin came up from behind, wrapped his arms around her waist, and rested his chin on her shoulder.

“I need inspiration. Can I borrow a little of your magic?” he whispered.

Chan, from his computer in the corner, watched them with a soft smile.

“Everyone’s extra affectionate today, huh?”

Han, sprawled across the studio sofa like part of the furniture, phone in hand while checking the rap flow against the melody, looked up at Chan with amusement.

“And you, leader? Don’t you want your turn?”

Chan stood, walked over to Lia, and placed one of his caps backward on her head.

“There. You’re officially part of 3RACHA today,” he said before kissing her temple.

And the most beautiful part was—no one competed. No one felt awkward. It was like, suddenly, they had all let their guards down.

Later, when they were in the living room watching clips of their first practices, Lia lay nestled between Minho and Jeongin, while Seungmin gently tickled her leg with a pencil. Felix hugged her feet. Chan watched her with a calm smile from the kitchen, and Changbin discreetly snapped photos.

The tension of the past had melted away. And while they knew there were still many conversations, insecurities, and challenges ahead—

for now, they were just living.

Together.

Connected.

In their own universe of affection.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids smut #stray kids

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kaoriartss-blog · 16 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 16: "New Melodies"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The atmosphere in the house felt different. With the Connections music video finally handed over to the staff, a kind of relief floated in the air. It had been an intense and exciting shoot, but now they could breathe and focus entirely on what came next: the rest of the album's songs.

Lia was in the living room, her notebook resting on her knees and a half-finished cup of tea on the table. She hummed a melody while scribbling down loose lyrics, searching for that spark that could ignite a new song.

"You're already working again?" Jeongin asked from the doorway, his smile soft.

"There's always something to write," she replied, looking up to meet his bright eyes.

Jeongin walked over and sat beside her, silently glancing at the notebook.

"Can I...?" he asked, pointing to it, asking for permission to read.

Lia nodded, slightly nervous. He flipped through a few lines.

"I like this. It feels very... you," he said sincerely, not taking his eyes off her.

"You think so? Sometimes I feel like everything I write sounds the same..."

"It doesn’t. And even if it did, that would just mean it carries your essence. That’s not a bad thing." Jeongin leaned in a little closer. "I like the way you think—and how you turn that into words."

There was a small pause. Lia felt her heartbeat quicken.

"Thank you, Jeongin. That means a lot."

He smiled shyly, his cheeks just a little pink.

"You know, I like being with you. You make me feel calm, but also excited. It’s weird. Cute, but weird," he admitted with a quiet laugh.

"I feel something similar with you..." Lia replied honestly, biting her lip for a moment.

Jeongin leaned in even more. It wasn’t impulsive or clumsy—it was slow, thoughtful, and full of tenderness. Lia closed her eyes just as their lips met in a short, warm, almost shy kiss. It was barely a whisper of skin, but it carried so much meaning.

When they pulled apart, he laughed, his eyes sparkling.

"I don’t know if I should say this, but... I’ve wanted to do that for a while now."

Lia smiled, touching her lips with her fingers.

"Me too."

They stayed like that, sharing a knowing smile in the quiet, while in the background, the others were still busy with their own melodies.

After weeks full of rehearsals, recordings, and video shoots, the house felt more peaceful than ever. The afternoon sun streamed through the windows, bathing the wooden floors in warm light. That day, there were no strict schedules, no choreographies to practice. It was simply a day to enjoy.

In the kitchen, Lee Know was organizing ingredients while wearing a cat-eared apron—courtesy of Hyunjin.

"Why do I always have to be the chef?" he complained, though he was already chopping onions with enviable skill.

"Because if Jeongin cooks again, we’ll end up eating microwave ramen again," Han replied from the kitchen island, stealing a carrot.

"Hey! That ramen was gourmet!" Jeongin defended himself as he walked into the kitchen with Lia, both laughing at something only they understood.

Felix appeared behind Lia and wrapped an arm around her, resting his chin on her shoulder.

"What are you two whispering about, huh?" he asked playfully.

Lia turned with an innocent smile.

"Composer secrets. You wouldn’t get it."

"Hey!" Hyunjin burst in like a whirlwind, holding a bottle of soda. "Anyone wanna help me with dessert, or does everyone think this is a restaurant?"

Felix raised his hand enthusiastically, already wearing a black apron.

"I’ll help! But only if I get to pick the music."

"As long as you don’t blast reggaeton again..."

"Too late." The beat was already blasting from the speakers before Hyunjin could finish the sentence.

Amid the chaos, Bang Chan entered carrying a box.

"I brought board games! Dinner and card games later?"

"Are you our hyung or our dad?" Han joked.

"Depends on the day—both," Chan shot back.

Laughter filled the house. The table slowly filled with dishes: grilled meat, rice, banchan, salads. Felix had made banana bread, and Hyunjin managed to stack a tower of pancakes that honestly defied gravity.

During dinner, everyone spoke at once. Lia sat between Seungmin and Jeongin, both competing to serve her more food.

"I'm already full!" she protested, laughing.

"You can't say no to my kimchi," Seungmin insisted.

"Or the rice I made," Jeongin added, making an overly hurt expression.

"You guys are going to make me explode," Lia complained, but her smile gave her away.

From across the table, Changbin watched her with tenderness.

"Feels like a real family, doesn’t it?"

"It is," Chan said proudly. "Maybe not by blood, but definitely by heart."

After eating, they cleaned up amid jokes and bickering over who had to do the dishes (which ended up being Han and Hyunjin, after losing at rock-paper-scissors). Then they settled in the living room with blankets, playing cards and challenging each other to silly games only they understood.

Lia looked around, seeing each of them smiling sincerely, lit by the warm glow of the lamps.

A sigh escaped her lips without warning. She was happy. Tired, yes, but happy. This wasn’t just a project. It was something deeper. A connection she hadn’t anticipated but now felt in every glance, every gesture, every song.

And in her heart, she knew that everything they were creating—music, memories, feelings—was something she’d carry with her forever.

Extra:

After everyone started scattering around the house—some heading to their rooms and others still in the living room playing cards—Lia stepped out into the backyard, seeking some fresh air. The night was clear, and the moonlight shimmered gently across the surface of the pool.

She sat on one of the lounge chairs, hugging her knees. Not because she was sad, but because she felt small in the midst of so many good emotions. She closed her eyes and let the silence wrap around her.

"You never get tired of disappearing after dinner, do you?" came a familiar voice.

Lia opened her eyes to see Minho approaching, a jacket draped over his shoulders, hands in his pockets.

"I just needed a bit of calm. Everything felt so... warm today," she said with a faint smile.

Minho sat beside her, saying nothing at first. He simply stared ahead, like she did. The sound of the water, the rustling leaves. For a few seconds, there was no need for words.

"You know," he finally said, "sometimes it’s hard for me to keep up with you."

"My rhythm?"

"Yeah. Sometimes you seem so confident, so radiant... like all of this comes naturally to you. But then I see you in moments like this... and I realize you get tired too."

Lia looked at him, surprised by how accurate his words were.

"Sometimes I do get tired. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything," she whispered.

"I’m glad to hear that," he replied, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. "Because... I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but we’re all a little lost because of you."

Lia let out a soft laugh, lowering her gaze.

"You too?"

"Much more than I’d like to admit," Minho said, now looking at her with honesty.

A silence fell between them, heavier this time. Not uncomfortable, but full of unspoken things.

Then, Minho reached out and placed his hand over hers, gently. His fingers brushed hers with a shyness not often seen in him.

"Is it okay if I don’t run this time?" he asked softly.

Lia stayed still, her heart skipping unexpectedly. She gently squeezed his hand.

"It’s okay if you stay," she answered.

Minho gave a crooked smile, the one he always showed when he let his guard down. And though they didn’t say much more, the gesture was enough. They remained there a while longer, hand in hand, watching the moonlight dance across the water.

And for a moment, the whole world seemed to pause just for them.

The silence between them had become comforting, almost enveloping. The soft garden lights and the quiet murmur of the wind made everything feel slower. Minho was still holding Lia’s hand, their thumbs brushing gently.

Lia glanced at him from the corner of her eye. His head was slightly bowed, eyes fixed on the water. But there was something in his expression… a mix of calm and restraint.

"Minho?" she whispered.

He slowly turned to face her. For a moment, neither said anything. They just looked at each other. Lia felt her chest tighten, but not from anxiety—it was a warm, familiar feeling.

Minho tilted his head slightly.

"Can I do something?" he asked quietly, as if it took effort to say.

"What?"

"This."

And before she could ask what he meant, Minho gently leaned in, cautiously seeking her lips. It wasn’t a rushed or impulsive kiss. It was slow, almost hesitant, as if he was finally allowing himself to cross a line he’d been avoiding for weeks.

Lia didn’t pull away. She closed her eyes and returned the kiss, feeling the faint tremble in their still-intertwined fingers. The world shrank to that moment, to that silent connection between them. No cameras, no pressure, no audience but the stars.

When they pulled apart, Minho rested his forehead against hers, his hands still brushing against hers.

“You always seem so strong…” he murmured. “But I like knowing I can see you this close.”

Lia smiled, her lips still brushing his.

“I was scared too,” she confessed. “But you’re always there, even if you don’t say much.”

“I’ll always be there,” he said without hesitation.

They stayed like that, wrapped in the night, knowing something had changed between them—

something that could no longer be hidden.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 18 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 15: “Lights, Camera…”

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The day had arrived.

Since early morning, the production team had set up in the streets of Ikseon-dong, a vibrant urban district full of murals, colorful cafés, and charming alleys—an ideal setting for the opening scenes of the Connections music video.

The energy in the air was palpable.

One by one, the members of Stray Kids were dressed in modern, urban outfits while the cameras were readied for dynamic shots using steadycams and drones.

Lia was inside the styling trailer, seated in front of the mirror while a stylist combed through her newly dyed hair: platinum blonde. It was a radical change, but it suited her—like a statement of intent. Bolder. Brighter.

“Are you sure about this?” one of the girls asked as she adjusted her earrings.

Lia nodded.

“For the first time in a long time… yes.”

The words echoed inside her.

She could still feel the warmth of last night’s kiss. It hadn’t been mentioned. No messages. No calls. Just glances exchanged during breakfast and while everyone got ready. Chan had given her a subtle but genuine smile. And she had answered with one that said, we’ll talk later.

---

First scene: the street.

The song played from portable speakers to guide their movements. The choreography started gently: walking together, exchanging glances, high-fiving. A group of young artists searching for connection—a reflection of the lyrics about identity, friendship, and passion.

Chan, Lee Know, and Changbin led the first lines, while Lia followed them to the center, fitting into the rhythm perfectly, wearing a sincere smile.

“Cut!” the director shouted. “Perfect, now one more take from the drone!”

While the cameras were being readjusted, the boys spread out. Lia walked over to the snack table and grabbed a bottle of water. As she turned, she saw Seungmin watching her.

“You felt it too, didn’t you?” he said softly, stepping closer.

“Felt what?”

“The chemistry between you and Chan.”

Lia tensed for a second, but Seungmin smirked.

“Don’t worry. I’m not planning to make a scene… today.”

She let out a nervous laugh.

“And tomorrow?”

“Who knows.” He winked, grabbed a cookie, and returned to the set.

---

Second scene: the rooftop.

The sun was casting orange hues as they climbed to the rooftop overlooking the Han River. The choreography here was more emotional, with synchronized movements symbolizing unity. Lia had a special shot with Han and Hyunjin, spinning between the two in a sort of freestyle dance while the lyrics spoke of finding oneself through others.

Between takes, Hyunjin approached her with a cold drink in hand.

“You look different.”

“Because of the hair?”

“No. Because of your eyes. You're… brighter.”

She looked at him tenderly.

“Is that a good thing?”

“If you shine, we’ll all see you.” He handed her the drink. “Don’t hide, okay?”

---

Last take of the day: full group.

They were all lined up. The sunset behind them, the wind in their hair, and the camera pulling away slowly as they struck the final pose of the choreography.

“Connections!” they all shouted in unison, raising their arms, smiling.

The director clapped from behind.

“That’s it! We got the shot!”

---

Later, back at home.

It was already night. The team had returned exhausted but satisfied. Some were showering, others sleeping. Chan was in the studio, reviewing footage on his laptop.

Lia knocked gently on the door.

“Can I come in?”

“Always.”

She walked in slowly, sitting beside him. Neither spoke for a moment. Then, Lia broke the silence.

“I don’t want what happened last night to be something we forget.”

Chan closed his laptop.

“I couldn’t forget it even if I wanted to.”

“And…?”

“And I want it to happen again. But only if you want it too.”

Lia leaned in. This time there was no doubt, no awkward silence. Just a second kiss—more certain, warmer.

When they pulled away, Chan smiled.

“We’re shooting the final scene of the video tomorrow. What do you think about ending it with all of us walking out from the darkness into the light… and you at the front?”

Lia raised an eyebrow.

“Are you planning to let me steal the spotlight?”

“You can’t steal what’s already yours.”

She laughed, lowering her gaze.

“Then tomorrow… I’ll shine even brighter.”

---

The second day of shooting began with a clear sky and air cooler than the day before. The team moved to a new set: a restored abandoned building lit with neon lights—perfect for the song’s introspective scenes, where the members appeared alone or in pairs, symbolizing different facets of the search for identity.

Lia arrived early with the makeup team. Chan was already reviewing shots with the director, giving her space. Their eyes met a few times, but they didn’t approach each other yet. Work came first.

First scene of the day: alone in front of a mirror.

One by one, the boys filmed brief scenes staring into an old mirror under soft lighting, projecting silent emotions: doubt, determination, joy.

When it was Lia’s turn, the director asked her to portray the moment of “self-discovery.” As she stepped onto the set, Jeongin offered to join her.

“I don’t want to interrupt your scene,” he said with a smile, “but if you want a friendly face behind you… I can be that.”

Lia laughed and accepted. In front of the mirror, while she lip-synced her verse, Jeongin gently clipped a hairpin into her hair that he had brought without saying anything.

“This color… suits your new version better.”

She turned to him, lowering her voice.

“Are you flirting with me?”

“Not yet. Just getting ready.”

---

Second scene: artificial rain.

For the emotional part of the song’s bridge, sprinklers simulated a soft rain over a narrow alleyway. Lia and Felix were to share this shot, both walking without umbrellas, crossing paths and turning to look at each other.

Between takes, Felix stayed close, offering her his jacket and helping her dry off.

“Doesn’t it bother you to get soaked like this?” she asked.

“Not if you’re by my side.”

The words hung in the air. He looked into her eyes a moment longer than necessary before pulling his hood back on.

“You look beautiful with your hair all wet,” he added right before the director shouted, “Action!”

---

Third scene: rooftop at night.

As the sun set, the sky turned orange while they prepared the final group shot in a building’s lobby. The set’s LED lights flickered with the video’s signature colors, and the song was now familiar to everyone.

While waiting for their turn, Han approached Lia with two warm drinks.

“Hazelnut coffee,” he said. “The favorite of someone who’s stealing way too many hearts lately.”

“Including yours?”

“I won’t lie. You’re causing trouble.”

“Is that bad?”

“Depends… are you going to keep doing it?”

Lia bit her lip to stop herself from smiling too much.

“Maybe.”

---

Fourth scene: group choreography.

Everyone together. The final choreography involved synchronized moves, rotating camera shots, and explosive energy.

Minho, wearing his usual serious expression, stood beside Lia for the partnered dance section. Between takes, he moved slightly closer, grabbing her wrist in a move that wasn’t in the choreography.

“What are you doing?” she whispered, surprised.

“Practicing how not to let you go.”

Lia didn’t have time to reply—the music started again.

---

End of filming.

After the final shot, everyone clapped. The crew celebrated with cold drinks, candid photos, and laughter. Lia took a few steps away from the group to look out at the city lights through the window.

Hyunjin approached her quietly.

“Everything okay?”

She nodded. He stood beside her without saying anything else, simply sharing the silence.

“Sometimes I feel like this is all a dream,” she said. “Everything is so… intense.”

“Dreams are real too, while you’re living them. And you’re in one now.”

He turned to look at her, his gaze intense but gentle.

“You know what’s special about a shared dream?”

“What?”

“No one wants to wake up first.”

---

As everyone was leaving the set, Chan hung back. He watched Lia as she talked with each of them, smiling, letting them get close. There was no jealousy—only a kind of acceptance.

She was the center of this story. And all of them, including him, orbited around her.

When their eyes met again, Lia gave him a calm smile. He responded with a slight nod.

No one was competing. They were just feeling.

And that was the truest connection of all.

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kaoriartss-blog · 18 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 14: "The Wave

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

It was early in the morning, and for once, the house was completely silent.

Lia woke up to sunlight filtering through the curtains. She had slept deeply after the hectic week of recordings, rehearsals, and the appearance on Weekly Idol. With squinting eyes, she reached out and grabbed her phone from the nightstand.

156 notifications.

“Huh?” she mumbled, her voice hoarse.

When she unlocked it, she saw the messages were from everywhere: group chats, social media mentions, clips from the show, and screenshots of fans commenting on her performance.

She opened Twitter out of pure curiosity.

#LiaWeeklyIdol

#LiaXStrayKids

#Connections

#OurGoldenTeam

All of them were trending.

“No way…”

There were fan threads analyzing even the tiniest moments: the way Felix looked at her while she spoke, Han’s awkward wink when he failed the random dance, the moment Lia blushed after seeing Seungmin’s aegyo.

> “She fits in SO well with them.”

“Lia is literally the 9th member.”

“Did anyone else notice how Bang Chan couldn’t stop smiling when she talked?”

“Okay but Minho’s eyes when Lia said she saw them as family…”

“She’s not just an artist. She’s an energy.”

Lia swallowed hard. She closed the phone for a moment and hugged her knees.

It was overwhelming… but also warm. Real.

She headed down to the kitchen with messy hair and an oversized sweatshirt. Seungmin was there, pouring himself cereal while yawning.

“Ah, good morning… did you sleep well?” he said without turning, recognizing her instantly.

“Kind of. Twitter exploded,” she said, grabbing a glass of water.

“I saw. The fans are obsessed,” he replied with a small smile. “Does it scare you?”

“I’m scared of how much they like me,” she admitted, sitting down at the table. “I don’t want it to be a bubble. Something that’ll burst one day.”

Seungmin set the cereal box on the table and sat across from her.

“It’s not a bubble if it’s built on sincerity. What you showed yesterday was genuine. You weren’t playing a character. You were just you.”

She looked down, tracing the rim of her glass.

“Sometimes I feel out of place. Like all of you know who you are, and I’m just… trying to catch up.”

Seungmin didn’t respond immediately. Instead, he leaned forward with a soft expression.

“Do you know what I saw yesterday?” he asked. “A confident artist. A genuine friend. Someone who made eight guys laugh on national TV.”

She looked at him in silence.

“We’re the ones trying to catch up to you, Rimi-ya. Don’t forget that.”

A comfortable silence stretched between them. Then, in a spontaneous gesture, Seungmin took her hand on the table and squeezed it gently.

“If you ever feel like you don’t belong… let us take care of that. We’ll keep pushing boundaries with you.”

Lia smiled, her eyes glossy.

“Thank you, Minnie Oppa.”

“You’re welcome, Princess Weekly Idol,” he teased. They both laughed.

---

The rest of the day moved slowly. Each member spent their time checking messages from fans, reacting to memes, sharing selfies on Bubble, and reading comments.

Minho locked himself in his room to edit a behind-the-scenes vlog.

Hyunjin did a mini live showing drawings he had done of the group.

Changbin recorded an improvised rap about Connections and posted it on Instagram.

Felix baked brownies for everyone without saying a word and left them on the table with a note that read: “For surviving Weekly Idol.”

From the studio, Chan watched one of the most-shared clips from the show: Lia talking about how this project had changed her.

He smiled.

“She’s definitely with us for a reason.”

---

That night, they all gathered in the living room to watch the full episode together. They laughed, teased each other, screamed in embarrassment during their own segments, and replayed the aegyo part like five times.

“No more! Turn it off, please!” Lia cried, covering her eyes.

“NEVER!” Han shouted, rewinding the video again.

“Oh my god, my voice sounds awful on camera!” Hyunjin yelled, though he was clearly pleased.

It was a simple night—no choreographies, no rehearsals. Just laughter, jokes, and a screen that reflected more than a variety show: it reflected how this project, which started as something professional, was turning into a shared story.

And even though no one said it out loud…

They all knew that Connections was already something more than just a song.

---

Night had already settled over the city. Outside, the breeze was gentle and the house lights twinkled warmly. While the others kept watching show clips and laughing in the living room, Lia had slipped away to the studio by the pool.

She sat in front of her notebook, a steaming cup of tea by her side, and her laptop open with the demo ready to be adjusted. She’d been working on this song for days—during stolen silences, voice memos, and verses scribbled on napkins. Now it finally had shape:

“Endless Adventure.”

An energetic rhythm, full of electronic percussion, bright synths, and a clear message: live without fear. A celebration of the thrill of diving into the unknown with nothing but a racing heart.

She hummed the chorus as she read it softly.

> “Step by step, the world unfolds / no maps, no plans, just heart and soul…” she whispered, then smiled. “It’s ready.”

She opened KakaoTalk and messaged Chan:

> Oppa, I finished a song. Can you help me record it? It’s really ready.

His reply came immediately:

> Now?

> Yes. Now.

Ten minutes later, Chan walked into the studio. He was wearing a hoodie and a cap, his hair tousled from the night breeze.

“Well?” he asked, smiling as he approached her.

Lia handed him the notebook.

“It’s called Endless Adventure. I want it to sound like… a never-ending race. Like when you run downhill and everything inside you is vibrating.”

Chan flipped through the lyrics, reading in silence. Then he looked up.

“It’s incredible. It’s got your energy all over it.”

She blushed.

“Thanks… but I don’t know how to make it sound as powerful as I imagine. That’s why I want your help.”

“Of course. Let’s record it right now.”

---

The process was unlike anything Lia had experienced before.

Chan didn’t just tell her how to adjust her voice or which key would work best for the chorus. He listened. He asked what she felt in each verse, what image she wanted to convey. They recorded each part calmly, but passionately.

“What do you feel when you sing this bridge?” he asked as she stepped out of the booth after a take.

“That I’m letting go of everything,” she replied. “Like I’m finally not afraid anymore.”

Chan nodded, serious.

“Then let’s do another take… but this time don’t think about doing it well. Just think about that.”

Lia took a deep breath, stepped back in, and sang.

It was perfect.

When she finished, silence fell between them. Chan watched her from behind the booth glass, saying nothing. Then he pressed the mic button.

“That was the final take.”

She smiled.

“Are you serious?”

“I never joke about music.”

She stepped out of the booth, her heart pounding. Chan came closer, not breaking eye contact. His eyes were shining with a mix of pride, tenderness, and something else. Something deeper.

“You made something beautiful, Lia.”

“It was thanks to you,” she whispered.

“No. I was a witness, not the author.”

They looked at each other. Close. Very close.

And for the first time, neither of them pulled back.

It was Lia who took the step. Small, trembling, but firm. And Chan met her halfway. Their lips touched with the delicacy of a shared secret. It was slow, as if both were trying to memorize every second. When they parted, Chan rested his forehead against hers.

“Is this okay?” he whispered.

Lia nodded, eyes still closed.

“It’s perfect.”

Outside, the pool lights danced on the water. Inside the studio, Endless Adventure kept playing softly in the background, as if the song itself had witnessed the beginning of something new.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #skz ot8 x reader #poly skz x reader #skz poly x reader #skz x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids

23 notes · View notes

kaoriartss-blog · 20 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 13: "Lights, Camera... Chaos"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The soft lights of the practice studio were barely on. The polished floor reflected the first rays of morning slipping through the small skylight in the hallway. Silence, except for the low hum of the air conditioner and the faint sound of bare footsteps.

Lia stood alone in the center of the room, dressed in dark joggers and a loose white t-shirt knotted at the side. Her hair, now platinum blonde, was tied up in a messy bun. She breathed rhythmically, marking the choreography counts in front of the mirror while the instrumental version of Connections played from her phone.

She spun, landed softly on her knees, extended her arm... and stopped. She gasped lightly. Frustrated, she stood up and paused the music.

"Count was off again," she muttered, rubbing the back of her neck.

"I didn’t notice. It looked great from the door."

Lia turned, startled. Leaning against the doorway in a light blue hoodie and baggy pants was Felix, holding a water bottle in hand and wearing that calm, radiant smile of his.

"How long have you been there?"

"Long enough to admire you," he said, stepping inside. "And to see you've been pushing yourself since early morning."

Lia let out a tired chuckle and dropped to the wooden floor, sitting down.

"Couldn't sleep. I want it to turn out right... you know, the video, the choreo, everything."

Felix sat beside her, crossing his legs. For a few seconds, they just shared the silence, breathing together, watching their reflections in the mirror.

"Can I say something without it sounding over the top?" he asked, still looking ahead.

"You always can."

"You’ve been... glowing lately. Not just because of the new look," he said, glancing at her profile. "It’s like you’ve found a part of yourself that was waiting to come out. And I’m really happy to see it."

Lia looked at him, feeling that familiar warmth in her chest.

"With you, I always feel a little braver."

Felix looked away with a shy smile, slightly blushing.

"Well... you make me feel at peace. Like I don’t have to do anything but be here."

A comfortable silence settled. Nothing urgent needed to be said. Just the quiet language of two people who understood each other.

Felix extended his hand, palm up. Lia hesitated for a second... then took it. Their fingers fit naturally.

"Thanks for being here," she said softly.

"I always will be, Lia. As long as you let me."

Before they could say anything more, rushed footsteps echoed from the hallway.

"Hyunjin, I told you it wasn’t at nine! It was at eight-thirty!"

"Then why didn’t anyone wake me?!"

They both let go of each other’s hands, laughing, and Felix stood up, offering his hand to help her up.

"Let’s get back to work before Han scolds us for being 'late' to a place we were already in," she joked.

Felix nodded, but just before they started again, he whispered:

"Hey… in the choreo during the second verse, there’s a moment when I’m supposed to place my hand on your waist, right?"

"Uh-huh."

"Can I confess I practiced that more times than necessary?"

Lia burst out laughing and gave him a gentle shove, just as the door opened and the rest of the group started to shuffle in, yawning, holding water bottles, and half-asleep laughter.

Practice was about to begin, but the energy already felt different. Through steps and glances, Connections was starting to take shape — not just as a song, but as what it truly was: a reflection of all the bonds that united them.

---

Group practice had ended a few minutes ago. Sweat beaded on their foreheads, their shirts clung to their bodies, and the room smelled of effort and music. Some had already gone upstairs to shower or drink something cold. The portable speaker was still on, playing Connections instrumental on repeat.

Lia remained seated on the floor in front of the mirror, head down, palms resting between her knees. She wasn’t physically exhausted, but something was nagging at her inside.

"That again?" Minho said, still with a towel around his neck, watching her from the corner.

"That what?" she asked, lifting her head.

"That look. The ‘I’m staying here until my feet bleed or I pass out’ one."

"It’s not that bad. It’s just... this part still isn’t coming out right," Lia said, pointing to a section of the choreography that involved a quick spin-to-fall transition.

Hyunjin, who was drinking water by the entrance, turned around when he heard her.

"Want us to help?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Aren’t you guys tired?"

"Of course, but we’re more worried about you hurting yourself," Minho replied, dropping the towel and stretching his arms with exaggerated resignation.

Lia smiled in relief. She appreciated those small gestures of support more than she could express.

"Alright. Let’s go from that part, yeah?"

Hyunjin stood to her left, Minho to her right — just like in the section of the choreo where they surrounded her.

"You need a bit more bounce before the turn," Minho said, showing her the step in slow motion. "It’s not strength, it’s momentum. Use your left leg to get lift."

"And in the fall, don’t just drop," Hyunjin added, stepping in to correct her posture. "Support yourself with your hand. Feel the rhythm before sliding."

They practiced three times. Then five. Then eight.

"That’s it! That was it!" Hyunjin said as he watched her finally glide fluidly with the beat.

Lia gasped and dropped to her knees, laughing with a hint of tears in her voice.

"Finally!"

Minho crouched beside her with an open water bottle.

"Told you — you just needed bounce and patience."

"And a couple of unpaid coaches?" she teased, taking a sip.

Hyunjin flopped down on the floor, legs stretched out.

"We’re not unpaid. We accept payment in ramen and ice cream. Preferably today."

"Deal," Lia replied, still catching her breath.

For a moment, the three of them lay on the wooden floor, staring at the white ceiling.

"You know?" Minho said in a softer tone. "I admire that you don’t give up. There’s something inspiring about seeing you like this — fighting yourself, not giving in."

Lia turned her face toward him, eyes a little more vulnerable.

"I’m scared of letting you down. You guys. Myself. This whole project."

Hyunjin leaned in, looking at her gently.

"You’re not going to fail, Lia. Not even if you tried. Because everything you do, you do with your heart. And it shows."

"And if you ever feel like you’re falling, we’ll be here. To catch you or fall with you," Minho added, his tone calm and sincere.

Lia closed her eyes for a moment, breathing deeply.

"Thank you. Both of you."

"Now get up, dramatic blondie. Let’s go get that ramen," Minho joked, standing and offering her his hand.

Lia took it and got up, followed by Hyunjin. Together they left the practice room, laughing, drenched in sweat… but content.

That night, they would sleep with sore bodies — but peaceful hearts.

---

The black van pulled up in front of the MBC building. It was just past 9:30 a.m. the next day, and although the sun barely peeked through the spring clouds, the air was charged with excitement. Stray Kids and Lia had been invited to Weekly Idol — one of their first official appearances as a unit since the collaborative project began.

"I can’t believe we’re going to be on the same show again. This time as a unit!" Changbin exclaimed as they climbed out of the van.

"I just hope they don’t play those embarrassing debut clips," Hyunjin groaned, rubbing his face.

"Too late. I saw the writers scrolling through our old TikToks," Han laughed.

Lia walked in the middle of the group, her platinum blonde hair perfectly styled, wearing a white corset-style blouse and a flared black skirt — with shorts underneath, just in case. Her makeup was light but flawless, and though she tried to stay calm, butterflies were flapping wildly in her stomach.

"Nervous?" Seungmin asked quietly as he walked beside her.

"A little. I’ve never been on Weekly Idol... with eight boys at once," she replied with a nervous smile.

"Just be yourself. Though if you start dancing weird like Han, we might get canceled," he joked, making her burst out laughing.

As they stepped onto the set, the hosts — Kwang Hee and Eunhyuk, guest MCs that week — greeted them with enthusiasm.

"Stray Kids and Lia, welcome! Today we have a very special episode!" Kwang Hee announced.

"We’ve seen previews of your project and we’re excited to talk about the title track Connections," added Eunhyuk. "But first… let’s do a round of introductions with a fun twist!"

Each member had to introduce themselves with a creative phrase. Some were funnier than others.

"I'm Lee Know, the hyung who looks serious but dances like fire," said Minho, winking, which drew screams from the staff.

"I'm Han, the encyclopedia of bad jokes… but with good rhythm," he added, beatboxing.

Lia was the last one.

"I'm Lia, and even though I'm the only girl, I’ve got eight bodyguards and a song that’s going to break hearts!" she said confidently, raising her arms. The set erupted in applause.

Segment 1: Project Trivia

The MCs tested them with questions about the collaboration.

"Who was the first to suggest the name Connections?" asked Eunhyuk.

"Bang Chan!" they all shouted almost in unison.

Chan raised his hands in victory.

"Correct! Although I think Felix was the first to understand what the song was really about," he joked.

"Because I'm sensitive!" said Felix, dramatically touching his chest.

Segment 2: Games and Chaos

Next came a round of games: random play dance, speed karaoke, and an aegyo battle. Lia won the aegyo round effortlessly, causing Changbin to hide behind Seungmin from the cuteness attack.

"I can’t watch!! I’m going to faint!" he shouted, laughing.

But the most chaotic moment came when they all tried to dance the Connections choreography… at double speed. Stumbles, screams, laughter, and falls. Lia ended up on the floor with Han and Felix, all laughing so hard they couldn’t get up.

"If that makes it into the teaser, we’re going to be a meme," said Hyunjin, half-defeated.

Segment 3: Heartfelt Words

Near the end, the MCs asked them to say one sentence that described what this project meant to them.

"Learning to connect with others is also a way of getting to know yourself," said Seungmin in a calm tone.

"We’re creating something bigger than a song. We’re creating memories," added Felix.

Lia was the last to speak.

"I never imagined this project would change the way I see things so much. I didn’t just make music with them… I made a family."

Her words made several staff members fall silent for a moment, and the atmosphere turned warm, almost nostalgic.

"Wow! That deserves a round of applause!" said Eunhyuk, clapping.

The program ended with a group selfie, promises to return when the album was released, and many grateful hugs.

Off-camera, as they walked toward the van, Chan approached Lia.

"You did really well today. You felt confident, didn’t you?"

"Yeah… I think I’m finally starting to enjoy all of this, without fear," she said, smiling sincerely.

"Then you’re exactly where you’re meant to be," he replied, giving her a pat on the back.

As they got into the van, the sun began to set and the sky turned pink.

And in the air, something felt more certain than ever: they were ready to show the world their connection.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 21 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 12 – “A Day with No Schedule”

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Comment: Hello, first of all I want to thank you all for the support that the work is receiving, I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart. Second, I would like to clarify a few things: I started writing this story after reading many other stories on ao3 that for their proper reasons did not have an ending, so this is more of a very personal thing that I am willing to share with you. This brings me to the third point, my story is very, TOO, advanced compared to what I am currently writing, so if you don't like something or have suggestions, let me know and I could fix certain things in the next chapters that have not yet been published. And one last and fourth thing, to the person who told me that I cannot use the term "x reader" because I am using "a damn oc" please, keep your venom to yourself and if you don't like it, just don't read it, nobody forces you to. Thank you 💞

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

After weeks of rehearsals, recordings, creative meetings, and a teaser filmed outdoors, the house finally woke up without rush or alarms. It was a day off. No cameras, no staff, no timetables. Just the nine of them… and the gentle sound of the coffee machine bubbling in the kitchen.

08:39 AM. Kitchen.

Chan, wearing a gray hoodie and with messy hair, was pouring two cups of coffee when he heard barefoot steps behind him. Lia, in an oversized t-shirt and her hair in a high bun, came in rubbing her eyes.

“Is that… real coffee?” she mumbled, still half-asleep.

Chan smiled and offered her a cup.

“I wouldn’t cheat on our day off. Did you sleep well?”

“Like a rock.” She took a sip. “You?”

“I had a weird dream. Hyunjin was singing opera and Lino was crying because his ice cream melted.”

“That sounds 100% realistic,” she laughed.

09:10 AM. Living Room.

Felix and Seungmin had built a blanket fort between the couch and the coffee table. Jeongin watched them with a mix of fascination and horror while Lino ignored them completely, focused on watering the backyard plants.

“Do you really need that many pillows?” asked Jeongin, arms crossed.

“It’s art,” said Felix, seriously. “The art of rest.”

Lia dropped onto the couch next to Han, who was flipping through a poetry book.

“What are you reading?”

“One of those books that seem deep but you don’t understand anything. Makes me feel more interesting.”

11:27 AM. Kitchen.

Minho and Changbin were cooking together. Soft music played, both wearing aprons. Minho was chopping ingredients with precision while Changbin tasted the sauce and frowned.

“This needs more… something,” he said.

“Thanks, Gordon Ramsay. Add garlic and don’t distract me.”

“Why are you always so bossy in the kitchen?”

“Because you get distracted too easily. Like with Lia, for example,” Minho said, not even looking up.

Changbin glanced at him, blushing, and then pretended to be busy checking the noodles.

13:15 PM. Dining Room.

Everyone was eating together around the big living room table, laughing over some story Jeongin and Han told about a cockroach in the bathroom. Lia had a napkin on her head, crowned the “lunch queen” for making raisin rice as a side dish.

“Rimi-ya, can I have another serving of this?” Hyunjin asked with shining eyes.

“After saying it looked like grandma food?”

“Grandmas are the best chefs. I take it back.”

15:30 PM. Backyard.

The sun gently fell over the pool. Some were on lounge chairs, others dipping their feet in the water. Chan read quietly, Seungmin napped with a cap over his face, and Hyunjin took selfies with Lia.

“One more! This time with a duck face,” Hyunjin said, laughing.

“That trend died in 2014!”

“Then we’re vintage art. Shhh.”

17:45 PM. Music Room.

Lia walked in looking for her lyrics notebook but found Changbin playing the keyboard softly, humming a gentle melody. He looked up and gave a shy smile.

“Is that the new demo?”

“Just messing around.” He scooted over. “Want to try something?”

She sat beside him, her fingers gently pressing the keys. They improvised something simple, a chord progression with a couple of English lines. No effort. No pressure. Just music.

20:00 PM. Movie Night.

Everyone was gathered in front of the TV. Popcorn, blankets, and a democratic vote that ended with a Korean rom-com chosen by majority.

Lia snuggled between Felix and Seungmin, her feet resting on Han’s thighs. Jeongin had fallen asleep within the first ten minutes, and Minho was drawing mustaches on him with lipstick.

“I don’t know if this counts as rest or group therapy,” Chan said with a smile.

“Both,” Lia replied, happy.

01:03 AM. Living Room.

The house was quiet. The dim kitchen lights still flickered softly, and the echo of the romantic comedy lingered from the now-blank TV. Lia had gone to bed a while ago, exhausted from the day, leaving the boys scattered among cushions, couches, and rugs.

Chan was sitting on the floor, staring distractedly at a steaming cup of tea when he spoke in a low voice:

“We need to talk… all of us.”

All eyes turned to him. It wasn’t a commanding tone, but it carried seriousness. One by one, the members stopped what they were doing: Seungmin removed his headphones, Changbin put down his phone, Hyunjin sat cross-legged, Felix straightened up. Even Han and Jeongin, who had been playing with a silly app, looked up attentively.

“It’s about Lia,” Chan said, getting straight to the point.

A heavy silence fell. No one said anything, but no one looked away.

“I’m not going to judge anyone. In fact… I’d be stupid to. I care about her a lot, and I understand perfectly why you all feel this way,” he said with a soft smile. “But it’s not just intuition anymore. I see it. In the way you look at her, how you worry about her, how each of you reacts differently when she enters the room.”

Changbin looked down. Seungmin pressed his lips together. Hyunjin took a deep breath.

“There’s nothing wrong with having feelings for someone,” Chan continued. “But we’re eight people living together, working together… and in love with the same girl.”

“It’s not just a crush,” Han murmured.

“No,” said Hyunjin, arms crossed. “It’s not.”

Felix nodded slowly.

“I want her to be happy. And I want to be there if she lets me.”

“So what do we do? Compete?” Jeongin asked with a grimace. “Or ignore our feelings and pretend?”

“I don’t think Lia would like us fighting over her,” Seungmin said, looking at his cup. “In fact, I think that would make her feel guilty. And she shouldn’t carry that.”

Chan stood up slowly and looked at them one by one.

“I’m just proposing something. Something… crazy, maybe. But healthier than hiding feelings or creating tension between us. If everyone agrees, and if Lia agrees too, we could… share this affection.”

“How?” asked Changbin, frowning.

“No lies. No double games. If she feels like having romantic moments with one of us, or with several… let her. With freedom. With respect. And if at any moment she feels uncomfortable or wants to stop, we all accept her decision.”

Hyunjin ran a hand through his hair.

“An emotional agreement?”

“A way to not break as a group or pressure her.” Chan paused. “This only works if there’s no toxic jealousy, no dirty games. If what we feel is real, then the deepest respect should come from that.”

Everyone stayed silent for a few seconds. And slowly, they nodded.

“It’s not conventional…” Felix said.

“But nothing in our life is,” Han added, smiling tiredly.

“Then it’s a deal.” Seungmin looked at them all. “But no one says anything until she’s ready. Or until we’re sure she is.”

Chan nodded, relieved.

“Good. We’re a family. Let’s not let this tear us apart. If she loves several of us, or just one, or none at all… we’ll accept it. But until then, we have the green light to be honest. With her and with each other.”

The tension gave way to a strange calm. It wasn’t a normal solution, but it was theirs. A silent pact sealed in the early morning.

And while Lia slept, unaware in her room, eight hearts aligned with a promise: to protect her world and the bond they shared, no matter what comes next.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #jeongin x reader #in x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 23 days ago

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Starburst

Chapter 11: "Transformations"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The sun was just beginning to filter through the windows of the house when Lia woke up with a tingling feeling of excitement and nerves. It was an important day. Today she would take another step in the project: the official preparation for the music video began, and with it, her image transformation.

After a quick shower and a light breakfast, she headed to the styling studio that the production team had temporarily set up in one of the practice rooms in the basement. As she entered, she was greeted with an enthusiastic exclamation.

“Our star is here!” shouted one of the stylists, Haneul, approaching with a smile and a folder full of visual references.

“Good morning, unnie,” Lia greeted, laughing as she sat in front of the large mirror surrounded by lights.

“Ready to go platinum blonde?” asked the colorist, lifting a strand of her black hair gently.

“More than ready. Let’s do this!” she replied, a mix of nerves and excitement in her voice.

Over the next few hours, the team worked on her hair with precision and patience. Between bleaching, treatments, laughter, and soft background music, the transformation began to take shape. Halfway through the session, one of the stylists showed her the moodboard with the planned outfits for the video.

“We want your look to reflect the concept of identity and evolution. So, we’ll try three styles: one with a metallic pleated skirt and white lace top, another more urban with beige cargo pants and a sheer crop top, and a final one with a short burgundy vinyl dress—very e-girl but elegant,” explained another stylist, Minji.

“Wow, they all sound amazing. The vinyl one gives me powerful vibes,” said Lia, making a mental note.

“And for makeup, we’re thinking something fresh and luminous for the emotional parts, and more dramatic with glitter on the eyes for the intense choreography,” added Haneul.

“Perfect. I trust you completely.”

Hours later, when her hair was finally dry and styled in soft waves, Lia looked at herself in the mirror. The platinum blonde gave her a completely new aura. More mature, bolder. She looked radiant. She could barely believe it herself.

“This is... wow!” she said, gently touching her golden strands.

“You’re a different person. Well, a more powerful version of yourself,” said Haneul, winking at her.

Just then, they heard footsteps approaching the studio. Han was the first to appear at the door, followed by Hyunjin and Chan.

“Can we look...?” Han asked, poking his head in.

“Come in,” Lia responded, turning in the chair.

The three of them fell silent for a few seconds, staring at her in surprise. Hyunjin was the first to speak:

“God... you look stunning.”

“I didn’t think you could be cooler, but you pulled it off,” said Han, dramatically exaggerating his tone.

Chan, more serious but with a genuine smile, nodded.

“It fits the concept perfectly. Really, you look amazing.”

“Thanks, guys,” Lia said, a bit flushed but happy.

After that little impromptu runway show, Chan gathered everyone in the main room, where the MV’s creative team was already set up with laptops, storyboards, and visual proposals.

“Now that we have a clear idea of the style, let’s go over the main shots,” Chan explained, pointing to a screen showing scene sketches.

The video would be divided into three main blocks: one in urban exteriors, where the group would dance in vibrant clothes amid neon lights and graffiti-covered streets; another more intimate one on a rooftop at sunset, symbolizing reflection and self-discovery; and a final scene where they all converge in a space filled with mirrors and lights, representing each person's connection with themselves and with one another.

“I want every scene with you to show evolution. We’ll start with more neutral expressions and build up to genuine smiles,” said Chan.

“And I want a close-up of you, Lia, right before the final chorus. As if you're whispering that key phrase to the audience,” added the director, pointing at his notes.

“The part that says, ‘I found me in the echoes of us’?” she asked.

“Exactly. That’s going to be the heart of the MV.”

Everyone nodded, the excitement growing. Lia felt this project was no longer just a collaboration—it was hers too. A story she was telling with them, from the inside.

When the meeting ended, everyone returned to their tasks. The boys would go scout locations, and Lia returned to the stylists to begin wardrobe fittings and do a quick on-camera makeup test.

Seeing herself on the monitor with the complete look—blonde hair, bright eyes, and a renewed energy—Lia smiled. Something inside her had shifted. And she was ready to show it to the world.

The morning passed quickly, and the house was buzzing again with movement: boxes of outfits going back and forth, laughter coming from the kitchen, and conversations blending with the constant sound of buzzing phones. Everyone was excited, working as a true team.

Everyone except Lia.

After the wardrobe and makeup test, she asked for a moment alone. She stepped out the back door into the garden, crossing the pool that shimmered under the afternoon sun, and sat on one of the lounge chairs, knees pulled to her chest. The soft wind moved her freshly dyed hair, and even though she had received compliments all day, a knot was beginning to form in her stomach.

What if she didn’t truly belong in this project?

What if her transformation was just an illusion, a façade without substance?

What if her presence distracted more than it contributed?

She didn’t hear the footsteps approaching until a calm voice sounded beside her.

“Can I sit with you?”

Lia looked up and found Seungmin, holding a drink in each hand. He offered her one and sat down beside her without waiting for an answer. He didn’t say anything at first—just took a sip from his bottle and looked out at the pool.

“I didn’t come to bother you, I just noticed you disappeared,” he added softly, with that serene tone so characteristic of him.

“I didn’t disappear,” Lia replied with a small smile, watching the water. “I just needed to breathe.”

Seungmin nodded.

“I get that. What’s wrong?”

Lia hesitated for a moment, but Seungmin’s silence wasn’t uncomfortable. It was the kind of silence that gives you permission to be honest.

“I think I’m scared. Everyone’s so confident, so talented, and I... I feel like I’m always a step behind. I changed my look, rehearsed more than I ever have, recorded my parts, and still I have this little voice telling me I’m not enough.”

Seungmin turned slightly toward her, observing her attentively.

“That little voice... is it yours? Or something someone else made you believe?”

The question caught her off guard. Lia looked at him, her eyes slightly shinier.

“I guess it’s a mix.”

He nodded again, thoughtful.

“I hear it too sometimes. That voice. Sometimes I feel like others shine brighter, like I’m not as expressive, like I don’t have as much energy on stage as the others. But I learned something important…”

Seungmin leaned a little closer.

“You don’t have to shine like them. You just have to shine like you.”

Lia looked down, biting her lip.

“And what if who I am isn’t enough?”

“You’re more than enough,” he said without hesitation, his voice soft but firm. “Look at everything you’ve done this month. You complete us. You make us laugh. You work hard. And when you sing... it doesn’t just sound good. It feels. And that’s more valuable than any technique.”

Lia didn’t say anything for a few seconds. Then, she let out a long sigh.

“Thank you, Seungmin. Sometimes I just... needed someone to remind me.”

“Anytime you need,” he replied with a small smile.

Their eyes met for a few seconds longer than usual. There was no urgency, no big declarations. Just a silent, real connection. Lia felt a gentle warmth in her cheeks, and Seungmin also looked away for a second, scratching the back of his neck awkwardly.

“By the way...” he said, trying to break the tension with a lighter tone, “your hair looks amazing. Not just saying that because everyone’s said it—but... I think I like it more than anyone else.”

Lia let out a soft laugh.

“Is that a competition now?”

“Of course. But only if I win.”

They stayed there a little longer, the wind playing with their hair, their shoulders almost touching. For a moment, everything felt in balance.

Until the patio door opened and Felix’s voice rang out:

“Lia, Seungmin! We need to film some shots for the teaser!”

Lia sighed, this time with more lightness.

“We should go,” she said, but before standing up, she looked at Seungmin with a more confident smile.

“Thank you for making me feel enough.”

He shrugged with a calm smile.

“You always have been.”

Hours later, the house was empty again—but for a good reason.

The team had moved to Seonyudo Park, a place full of contrasts between nature and urban structures, with tree-lined paths, metal frameworks, and a view of the Han River that looked like a painting. It was the perfect setting to film the first part of the teaser.

The cameras were already in position when the boys and Lia arrived in the van. The stylists were making the final adjustments: Lia wore a neutral-toned outfit— a beige skirt with tall boots and a light jacket with metallic details. The boys wore coordinated looks, all with a modern, street-style vibe that reflected their individual personalities while maintaining a cohesive image.

“This place is amazing!” Hyunjin said, spinning around as he looked up at the cloudy sky with an artistic expression. “I’m inspired. I can feel the concept’s emotion.”

“And you haven’t even had coffee yet,” Changbin joked, earning a round of laughter.

Lia, calmer after her earlier conversation with Seungmin, took in the surroundings with a smile. Everyone’s energy was contagious.

“Ready to shine?” Chan asked, approaching her with a warm smile.

“Always, leader-nim,” she replied, giving him a playful formal salute.

The first shot focused on the boys walking slowly along a metallic walkway, while Lia walked toward them from the opposite direction. When they crossed paths, they turned slightly to look at each other, symbolizing a first encounter—an unexpected connection.

Stray Kids wore modern streetwear, with leather jackets and graphic tees. Lia wore a chic outfit with a lace blouse and short skirt, accented with bold accessories and high-heeled over-the-knee boots.

“Action!” the director shouted.

The camera followed the movement with a lateral tracking shot, while the background instrumental music (still without vocals) set the rhythm. Expressions were key: intense gazes, subtle gestures. It all looked like something out of an indie film—youthful and dramatic at once.

When the take ended, Jeongin clapped.

“That felt like a K-drama scene! I need my own personal OST!”

“It was, but I deserve a close-up. Look at this face,” Lee Know said, pointing at himself dramatically.

“Hyung, please!” Felix laughed, patting him on the back.

Between jokes and retakes, they spent several hours in the park filming different shots: individual clips of the members with symbolic objects (a letter, a drawing, a camera), moments of them laughing together, and group shots of them walking or sitting on the grass, looking at the horizon.

By nightfall, the second location awaited: the rooftop of a building in downtown Seoul, with a panoramic view of city lights and neon signs.

The air was colder up there, so they were given coats while they waited their turn. The staff set up moving lights to simulate strobe effects, adding dynamism to the scene.

“It’s like being on a stage among the stars,” Lia murmured as she adjusted her invisible mic.

“Literally,” Han added. “We are Stray Kids, right?”

Everyone laughed.

They also filmed what would become the opening shot of the video—Lia standing by a window in the building, looking out at the city with an expression of longing.

The final teaser shots included a simple yet emotional choreography, with the members forming a circle that gradually opened to reveal Lia at the center, singing the main lines. Even though it was only a teaser, they gave it their all, as if they were already shooting the full MV.

The members laughed and encouraged each other, showing true camaraderie.

The camera captured them in slow motion as they spun and laughed, the wind playing with their hair, the lights reflecting in their eyes.

After the final take, when the director shouted, “Cut, we got it!” everyone burst into applause and cheers.

“That was magical!” Hyunjin exclaimed, raising his arms to the sky.

“I’m going to sleep happy tonight,” Seungmin said, visibly satisfied.

Chan approached the group, smiling proudly.

“Great work, guys. Lia, you were amazing.”

“Thank you,” she said, blushing a little. “It was thanks to all of you. You made me feel like a real part of this.”

Jeongin hugged her by the shoulders.

“Because you are, Liya. This project doesn’t feel like ‘Stray Kids with Lia’ anymore—it feels like something we’re doing together.”

The van was waiting to take them back, but no one wanted to leave just yet. They lingered on the rooftop for a few more minutes, enjoying the view and the silence filled with satisfaction.

Felix pulled out his phone and started recording without anyone noticing.

“Teaser filmed. Emotions ignited. Stories waiting to be told,” he whispered to the camera. “Connections... is already alive.”

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kaoriartss-blog · 24 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 10: "Unexpected Notes"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The door closed with a soft click behind her.

Lia dropped her keys into the ceramic bowl by the entrance and stretched, as if the weight of the whole day had been pressing on her shoulders. The interview for Marie Claire Korea had been long, though fun. Still, between the cameras, the outfit changes, and the deep questions about her career, she was ready for a hot shower and a good meal.

The house was quiet. Too quiet.

“Hello?” she called out, though she already knew the answer. Nothing. Everyone was out. Some recording content, others at practice. It was rare to find the house completely empty.

She headed to the kitchen, opened the fridge, and pulled out the basics: leftover rice, kimchi, a couple of eggs, and some spinach. She was going to improvise something simple. As the ingredients began to sizzle in the pan, her body moved naturally to the rhythm of the music playing softly from her phone.

Suddenly, she started to sing. Not consciously. It just happened.

—♪ I got one less, one less problem… ♪

Her soft voice gained strength as she moved through the melody. Her sweet tone, with that sharp edge she had mastered, filled the kitchen with every verse of Problem by Ariana Grande.

She danced a little as she stirred the ingredients, unaware that someone had just entered.

Changbin, wearing a gray hoodie and carrying a bag, stopped in his tracks in the hallway. His eyebrows lifted when he heard that voice… that singing voice. Curious and quiet, he peeked into the dining room and leaned against the doorframe, watching with a mix of surprise and admiration.

Lia, completely unaware of his presence, turned around with a ladle in hand as if it were a microphone.

—♪ I got one less problem without ya… ♪

“Wow. I didn’t know Ariana Grande lived here now.”

Lia jumped in surprise, dropping the ladle into the sink with a clang.

“Oppa! You almost gave me a heart attack! How long have you been there?”

“Long enough to think you should consider a collab with Ariana,” he said, walking in with a grin.

Lia rolled her eyes, but couldn’t help laughing.

“I was alone, okay? The music possessed me.”

“I see… and the pan possessed you too?” he joked, pointing at how the rice was about to stick.

“Ah!” she rushed back to the stove, stirring everything while laughing nervously.

Changbin placed the bag on the kitchen island.

“I brought sweet potato cake from that place you like. Thought you'd be here later.”

“Your timing is still perfect, as always,” she said, grabbing two plates.

“And your voice too,” he replied, softer this time. It wasn’t just a compliment—it was sincere.

Lia looked at him for a second, then lowered her gaze, trying to hide the smile fighting to break free.

“Thanks. I was just having fun.”

“Have you ever thought about singing more seriously? I mean… with us. A feature or something.”

“You want to collaborate with me again, Changbin Oppa?”

He raised an eyebrow dramatically.

“I’m considering a lot of options right now. You surprised me. Korean Ariana.”

Lia struck a diva pose, tossing her hair to the side.

“Well, if you’re going to compare me to Ariana, I’ll seriously think about it.”

They both laughed as they served the food and settled at the counter. The kitchen, once silent, was now filled with voices, laughter, and a soft echo of shared trust. What started as an ordinary moment now felt special—no cameras, no choreography needed.

They finished eating, but the warm feeling lingered. Lia and Changbin sat at the counter, sharing the last slice of sweet potato cake, unhurried, enjoying the comfortable silence.

“You know,” Changbin began while stirring his tea, “it’s almost been two months since this project started.”

Lia nodded, setting her spoon down.

“Yeah, time flies when you’re surrounded by such… intense people.”

Changbin let out a soft laugh.

“Intense is a good word. But also inspiring.”

“That’s true,” Lia said, looking up at the ceiling. “I still remember when I first arrived—all those nerves, the first practices, the curious stares.”

“And now here we are, about to submit the title track and the album demos,” Changbin said with a sigh, his expression turning into a mix of excitement and pressure. “It’s not a small thing, huh?”

Lia leaned in a bit, her voice dropping into a more serious tone.

“No, it’s not. But you know what? I’m grateful. This project… it’s not just a job. It’s something that’s changing me. And you all have helped me more than you know.”

Changbin smiled, tapping the table with his fingers.

“We’re learning from you too, Lia. Your freshness, your ideas, that cultural mix you bring… it’s a breath of fresh air.”

“Sometimes I feel like I’m a bit of an outsider, but when I’m with you guys… it’s different. I feel like I belong.”

Changbin nodded, giving her that warm look he rarely showed.

“That’s what we want. For this to be real. Not just a commercial collab.”

Lia glanced at the clock and frowned slightly.

“Well, speaking of work, we have that session this afternoon to review the demos, right?”

“Yeah. And honestly, I think we need to put more effort into one of them,” Changbin said, leaning back in his chair. “The second demo sounds good, but it’s missing that spark to make people remember it.”

Lia laughed, remembering a joke Han had made recently.

“Changbin is always the harshest critic.”

“Someone has to be,” he replied with a sly smile.

“So… want to work on that demo together?” Lia offered.

“I’d love to,” Changbin said, genuinely.

A comfortable silence settled between them again, broken only by the sound of the city outside and the ticking clock.

“You know…” Lia looked down, then up again with determination. “I think this project will be more than just an album. It’ll be a turning point for all of us.”

Changbin smiled and lifted his tea in a small toast.

“To that and more.”

“To us.” Lia clinked her cup with his.

In that little kitchen, surrounded by music and quiet connection, they both knew the road ahead would be hard—but also unforgettable.

Lia was gathering a few dishes when Changbin stood and walked over slowly, as if he didn’t want to break the peaceful atmosphere that had settled.

“You know,” he said, his voice lower than usual, “I’ve been thinking about you a lot.”

She paused, turning to look at him with a mix of curiosity and something unexpected.

“Really?”

Changbin nodded, not breaking eye contact.

“Yes. Ever since we started this project… you’re the first thing I think of at night.”

Lia felt a flutter in her stomach, unsure whether to keep going with this conversation.

“I’ve felt something similar too. But I wasn’t sure if you noticed.”

He smiled softly and stepped closer.

“I notice. And not only that—I like it. I like it a lot.”

Lia looked down, nervous, but her heart was beating fast.

Changbin reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair from her face.

“Would you like to go out with me after the submission? No cameras, no music—just you and me.”

She looked at him with a shy but hopeful smile.

“I’d love to.”

For a moment, time seemed to stop. Changbin leaned in a little, their faces inches apart, the air charged with sweet anticipation.

Then, just as he was about to move closer, the door swung open with a bang.

“Hey! What are you guys doing here all alone?” shouted Han’s voice, bursting in with his usual energy.

They both pulled away quickly, laughing nervously, as the magic of the moment hung suspended, waiting for the next step.

Just as Lia and Changbin separated, the front door burst open again and in came Felix, Han, IN, Lee Know, Hyunjin, and Seungmin, all laughing and chatting cheerfully after running errands for the house post-work.

“Hey, you’re finally back!” Felix called out, carrying bags full of snacks and drinks.

“What are you two doing in here all chill?” Lee Know asked with a mischievous smile, catching the changed atmosphere between Lia and Changbin.

Han walked over curiously, with a teasing tone.

“Are we interrupting something romantic or what?”

Changbin and Lia blushed slightly but decided to play along.

“We were just talking about the song and the submission strategy,” Changbin lied with a shy smile.

“Sure, sure,” Hyunjin said with a playful grin. “Anyway, we need to start planning the music video. Who’s got ideas?”

The group quickly spread out in the living room, everyone throwing out suggestions with excitement.

Lia smiled at Changbin, feeling that this project—though exhausting—was bringing her closer to important people… and someone special.

The common room was full of laptops, notebooks, and coffee cups. Chan began with a smile.

"Alright, guys, what do you think? The song 'Connections' needs a video that captures all the energy and emotion, but still feels authentic."

Felix leaned on the table, enthusiastic.

"I say the colors should be super vivid, like warm tones, so when the music builds up, the video explodes visually. LED lights or something like that, right?"

Han nodded while playing with a pencil.

"Yeah, and when the song mellows out a bit, the lights could get softer, more intimate, to bring out the emotional vibe."

Lia smiled, delighted.

"Yes, exactly. I also want the outfits to match that mood. I imagine something feminine but modern—like lace blouses and skirts—something chic but comfortable."

IN raised an eyebrow, amused.

"And are you all going to let me wear my shiny leather jacket and look like the cool villain? That gives it contrast."

Changbin laughed.

"Sure, IN, but don’t go overboard with the leather or you’ll outshine everyone."

Lee Know jumped in, gesturing with his hands to explain.

"For the choreo, the idea would be to have super synchronized group moments and then give Lia space to shine on her own, right? That way everything flows."

Hyunjin jumped up, excited.

"What if we include shots with fans? That always adds something—it feels more real."

Seungmin nodded.

"Yeah, and we can film those at concerts or fan meets we already have scheduled. That way we blend the real with the planned."

Chan, who had been listening quietly, leaned in and added with a smile:

"Don’t forget the drone shots. From above, everything looks so much more epic, and you can really appreciate the group's movement."

Lia crossed her legs and added:

"I want the video to tell a story, but not in an obvious or forced way—something people can feel, not just watch."

Felix rubbed his chin.

"What if the story’s about finding ourselves? Feeling like we belong, like we fit in despite our differences—kind of like the message of the song."

"I love that," said Lia. "A journey from loneliness to real connection."

Han gave a conspiratorial smile.

"Locations? The park by the river for the quieter scenes, and downtown for the intense parts—with lots of people, lights, and movement."

IN raised a hand.

"And in the park, we could add some effects to make it feel magical—give it that special touch."

Changbin leaned closer to Lia and whispered:

"It’s going to be amazing, really."

She smiled back with confidence.

"I think so too."

They laughed, divided up the tasks, and kept talking through the details, while sunlight streamed through the window and the excitement for the project filled the air.

The sun was beginning to set on the horizon when the group moved to the backyard of the house, where the private recording studio was located next to the pool. The warm lights of the surroundings, combined with the relaxing sound of the water, gave the atmosphere an intimate yet productive feel.

Bang Chan was the first to enter, adjusting some levels and checking the microphones carefully while Changbin and Han sat in front of the equipment, ready to supervise the sessions. 3RACHA was already setting up the gear, each with headphones and open laptops, adjusting levels and playing the demo of “Connections.”

“Shall we try Hyunjin’s lines first?” Chan asked, looking over the song’s distribution sheet.

“Yeah, he has the first verses after the intro,” Han nodded, his brow furrowed slightly in concentration.

Hyunjin entered the booth, put on his headphones, and greeted them with a nervous smile through the glass. As he adjusted his posture, they heard his soft voice flow through the verse, full of emotion. When he finished, 3RACHA applauded from the other side.

“That was good! But try one more take with a little more breath, a bit more introspective,” Changbin suggested.

“Got it,” Hyunjin said, repeating the line with the suggested intent, this time achieving a more intimate performance. Lia, who was watching from a nearby couch, was impressed by Hyunjin’s ability to transform the emotion with such small changes.

After Hyunjin, came I.N, then Seungmin and Lee Know, each entering with their own style, receiving instructions from the producers, and leaving with smiles when hearing their voices played back with subtle effects.

The first chorus part, where Seungmin, I.N, Felix, and Lia sang in harmony, would be recorded separately by each of them, but they needed to be synchronized to harmonize.

“We’ll do this in sections,” Chan directed. “First, the main line, then the harmonies. Seungmin, you guide this part.”

The guys entered one by one into the booth, with Han making sure the harmonies were tight. I.N recorded his part with overflowing energy, and Chan laughed from the other side of the glass.

“You’re singing like this is the finale of a survival show, relax, maknae.”

I.N stuck his tongue out but re-recorded with a softer tone. Felix entered with a different energy, his deep, rhythmic lines vibrating through the room. He gave it a deeper, warmer tone, which caused Lia to turn on the couch, surprised.

“I didn’t know you could sound like that, Felix.”

“Neither did I,” he laughed. “It’s the magic of working with you guys.”

“That contrast of yours with the bridge is perfect,” Chan told him when he came out. “It gives us that emotional punch right before the chorus.”

Lia shifted a little, restless. Her turn was coming up, and although she had recorded many times in studios, doing so in a more informal setting with the guys watching made her a little nervous.

It was time for the second verse. Changbin had a fast, emotional solo part, contrasting with Lia’s sweetness. He took off his cap and adjusted the microphone.

“Ready when you say, hyung.”

“Go for it,” Chan said.

Changbin spat his lines with precision, his voice roaring at the climax. After a couple of takes, he left, making way for Lia.

“Lia, are you ready?” Han said, looking at her with an encouraging smile.

“I’m ready,” she replied, standing up with determination, though her fingers nervously played with the edge of her shirt.

She entered the booth. The red recording light came on, and the music started playing in her headphones.

“Okay, let’s start soft. Let’s go for the intro,” Chan said from the console, his tone firm but friendly. He looked at Lia. “Ready?”

Lia nodded while adjusting her headphones. Her voice would be the first to appear in the song. A whisper almost ethereal that needed to capture the listener.

“We’ll send you the tempo guide, and if you need to go back in, we’ll do it. No pressure,” Han said, giving her a thumbs up from the booth.

Lia took a deep breath and closed her eyes. As soon as the music sounded in her ears, her body relaxed. The first notes were soft, atmospheric, and she needed to convey vulnerability.

She sang.

“Sometimes I get lost in the silence… looking for someone, looking for light...”

The room went silent when she finished the take. No one spoke for a few seconds, until Chan exhaled with a smile.

“Wow. That was beautiful. But I want to try another take with a bit more longing in the voice. Like you’re searching for yourself, okay?”

Lia nodded, took a breath, and recorded again. This time, her voice trembled slightly, giving it an unexpected nuance. Painful. Human.

“That’s it. That’s the take,” Changbin said, crossing his arms, satisfied.

She needed to record the pre-chorus, a melodic part that required sensitivity but also firmness in the notes.

She sang the first take, soft, measured. When she finished, she looked through the glass, and Chan gave her a thumbs up, but approached the intercom.

“Very nice, Lia. But now try it as if you were talking to someone very special. Don’t think about singing, just tell them.”

She nodded, and in the next take, her voice changed. Warmer, livelier. The feeling 3RACHA was looking for came through. Changbin nodded, and Han smiled broadly.

“That’s the take,” Chan said, as they recorded one more just to be safe.

Her last part was the bridge. This time, her voice needed to sound stronger, more determined. The part was about taking control, finding “connection with oneself.”

She sang the first take. It was good, but not powerful enough.

“One more time,” Chan said, placing his hands on the console. “Imagine this is the scene where you finally understand who you are. No one is watching you, it’s just you, face-to-face with yourself. And sing from there.”

Lia closed her eyes. She felt the weight of the last month—the work, the doubts, the laughter with the guys, the knowing glances with Changbin, the long practice nights. Everything.

And she sang.

Her voice trembled at first, then steadied, grew. It rose with intensity. It was emotional without being dramatic. Authentic. When she finished, she dropped her head into her hands, breathing deeply.

There was a long silence, almost reverential.

“That was perfect. I want to tattoo it on my skin,” Chan sounded serious, moved.

“You gave it your all,” Han murmured. “I just want to hug you.”

“I want to hug her too,” Felix said, already standing. “Lia, come here!”

When she finished her parts, Lia stepped out of the booth with a mix of relief and excitement. She collapsed onto the couch next to Felix and Seungmin, who immediately congratulated her.

“Your voice... wow, it was like hearing a confession,” Felix commented.

“Of love?” Seungmin asked teasingly, raising an eyebrow.

Lia rolled her eyes, amused.

“Of identity, like the song says!”

The guys laughed as Chan recorded their final parts, followed by Han, completing the recordings.

By the time they finished, the sky was dark. The group went out to the garden and sat by the pool, drinks in hand, listening to the first demo of what they had just recorded. The mix wasn’t ready yet, but it already sounded powerful.

“This project... is starting to feel really real,” Hyunjin commented, looking at his teammates.

“Yeah, and really ours,” Lee Know added.

“‘Connections,’” Lia said, smiling as she rested her head on the back of her chair. “It’s not just a song, it’s what we’re building here.”

A brief silence enveloped them. It wasn’t uncomfortable; it was comfortable. Full of meaning.

And so, amid warm lights, laughter, and the soft sound of their own music playing, the team felt that something special was being born.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #jeongin x reader #in x reader #kim seungmin x reader #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids smut #stray kids #lee know x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 26 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 9: "Escape Code"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The afternoon sun was gently setting over the streets of Seoul when three black vans pulled up in front of a renovated old brick building. A huge sign at the entrance read “Escape Zone: Spy Mission – Expert Level.” It was the location where Stray Kids and Lia would film the new episode of SKZCode.

“Wooaaah, this looks epic!” Hyunjin exclaimed, hopping out of the van while pulling out his phone to record a story.

Lia stepped out right behind him, wearing round sunglasses and an oversized jacket that made her look like she had just walked off an action movie set. Chan was waiting at the bottom of the stairs with a knowing smile.

“Ready to become a spy for a day?” he asked.

“I’m always ready,” she replied in a dramatic tone that made everyone laugh.

“Yay, claustrophobia and pressure puzzles. So exciting,” Minho grumbled sarcastically, though he couldn’t hide the small smile that crept up when he saw Lia’s enthusiastic expression.

Inside the lobby, the staff explained the rules: three teams, a maximum of 45 minutes to escape, and hidden cameras in every corner. The rooms would be themed, and each group had to solve a series of interconnected puzzles. The team that escaped first would win prizes (and probably dinner paid by the losers).

Teams:

Team 1: Chan, Lia, Hyunjin

Team 2: Han, Seungmin, IN

Team 3: Lee Know, Changbin, Felix

The jokes started immediately.

“I don’t think it’s fair that Chan is with Lia. That’s emotional cheating!” Han protested, pouting.

“Emotional cheating? We haven’t even started and you’re already jealous!” Lia shot him a playful look, earning laughter from everyone.

“How do you manage to be the leader and still have a brain?” Changbin murmured.

“And muscles,” Lia added, winking as she held a magnifying glass with dramatic flair. Hyunjin walked behind her pretending to be her bodyguard, speaking in an English accent.

“Madame Lia has discovered a clue! Hurry, before the spirit of the puzzle escapes!”

“Let’s see if Seungmin’s eyebrow power helps me win this,” Han said, pointing exaggeratedly at his teammate, who just pushed him with a smile.

“What are we then? The handsome squad?” Lee Know asked, folding his arms and looking at Changbin and Felix.

“Sure, but without brains,” Changbin replied with mock seriousness, making Felix burst into laughter.

The staff led them to different numbered doors. Each team would enter a different room, but the clues were interlinked and could interfere with—or help—each other. The cameras rolled.

---

Room 1: “The Secret Vault” – Team Chan, Lia, and Hyunjin

The room was set up like an abandoned bank vault, dimly lit, with safes and codes everywhere. A timer was counting down from 45:00.

“Okay, this is creepy. Why is there a mannequin in the corner?” Lia asked, clutching Hyunjin’s arm.

“Don’t look at the mannequin, Lia. It’ll haunt your dreams,” Hyunjin said in a deep voice, earning a cushion smack from Lia.

“First, we need to look for numbers. Fast!” Chan commanded, switching into leader mode.

Lia knelt beside an old desk and began rummaging through drawers.

“Hyunjin, check the pictures or the walls, there must be something hidden.”

“On it, Captain Bang!” he said, giving a mock military salute.

After a few minutes, Lia found a note written in invisible ink that could only be read under UV light.

“Here it is! It says, ‘The mirror shows more than what you see’...”

Hyunjin rushed to the decorative mirror on the other side of the room and found a combination code written in the corner.

“Got it! To the panel!”

While they worked, Chan and Lia kept exchanging secretive smiles. Hyunjin quickly noticed.

“Aha… this isn’t an escape room, it’s a disguised date!” he muttered dramatically into the mic, knowing it would definitely make it into the final edit.

---

Room 2: “Abandoned Lab” – Team Han, Seungmin, IN

This room looked like something out of a sci-fi movie. There were test tubes, whiteboards filled with formulas, and even a fake biohazard alarm.

“Okay, we need to mix these liquids in the right order to activate the panel,” Seungmin said, reading the instructions on the board.

Han was already shaking test tubes without checking the labels.

“Hyung, are you sure that one doesn’t explode?” IN asked, discreetly stepping away.

“Of course it doesn’t explode, it’s just colored water! ...I think.”

As Han nearly dropped a flask, Seungmin snatched it out of his hands with surgical precision.

“Oh my god, I feel like I’m babysitting two kids in a science daycare,” he muttered, then looked into the camera and added, “Please send help.”

Between jokes, they managed to solve the first puzzle and triggered a green light in the room.

“One down!” IN shouted, raising his arms in victory. “And no explosions! Amazing!”

---

Room 3: “War Vault” – Team Lee Know, Changbin, Felix

This room was decorated like a military bunker: strategy maps, fake ammo crates, and an old radio.

“This looks like Felix’s gaming room,” Changbin joked, inspecting a crate.

“Or Lee Know’s when he loses at Mario Kart,” Felix added with a laugh, dodging a pillow his hyung threw at him.

“Don’t touch anything cursed until we know what it is,” Minho ordered, clearly tense.

“Too late, hyung,” Felix said, already holding a scroll. “This has fake blood… I hope.”

The radio had a distorted message that, once deciphered, revealed coordinates hidden on the map.

“We need to match the coordinates to the battle names,” Felix said, already sitting down like he was playing a war game.

Lee Know pointed sarcastically.

“You and your Australian accent—decode that. Let’s see if it’s useful.”

“Hey!” Felix put a hand over his heart, feigning offense. “My accent is part of the team, okay?”

With teamwork and lots of laughter, they opened a secret box that contained the key to escape.

---

After successfully escaping—and nearly losing their minds in the process—the nine of them headed to a small nearby park. The staff had already laid out blankets on the grass, cold drinks, and Korean street food: tteokbokki, hotteok, gimbap, and fried chicken. Cameras were still rolling, capturing these more relaxed “behind-the-scenes” moments.

Lia flopped onto one of the blankets with a dramatic sigh.

“We survived… barely,” she said, grabbing a can of melon soda.

Hyunjin lay next to her, covering his eyes with his arm.

“My brain hurts. I wasn’t born for pressure thinking.”

“Then what were you born for? Modeling?” Felix teased, settling on her other side while handing her a rice cake.

“Obviously.” Hyunjin lifted his chin arrogantly.

Lee Know sat across from them, his box of chicken as a shield.

“All I know is that if Felix hadn’t found that key under the map, we’d still be in that military room.”

“And I’d be without my chicken,” Changbin added, snatching a piece.

Felix laughed and wiped his hands on a napkin.

“Well, I think today confirmed that none of you would survive an apocalypse without me.”

“That’s not true!” IN shouted from the other end. “I found the final clue! But no one listened to me. Injustice!”

Seungmin, with a gimbap in his mouth, raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, but you also said ‘the ceiling was moving’ because you saw a shadow. Spoiler: it was your reflection.”

Everyone burst out laughing as IN hid his face behind his soda can.

Lia stretched out her legs, happy to see how the jokes flew between them all. She was feeling more and more like part of the group. Chan, sitting beside her with a drink in his hands, looked at her with a gentle smile.

“You were amazing in there. You surprised me with the invisible ink thing.”

“Thanks, it was pure instinct… and luck,” she shrugged. “Though I think Hyunjin was the real MVP. He had secret agent energy.”

“You heard that!” the newly crowned MVP shouted, pointing at the camera. “Lia said I was a secret agent. Call Hollywood.”

Han, who was recording himself with his phone, turned the camera to their group.

“Okay, confession: this was one of my favorite SKZCode episodes. The production team nailed it.”

“And yet we didn’t win…” Seungmin added dryly.

“But we didn’t blow anything up. That’s a win,” Han concluded.

Changbin, who had been petting an imaginary squirrel with a leaf (“meditating,” according to him), suddenly stood up.

"We should do another SKZCode with paintball! Or one with water, like in the summer!"

Felix snapped his fingers.

"Yes! A water race. Lia, are you a good swimmer?"

"It depends. Are you planning to push me into the pool?" she replied with a playful smile.

"No... unless you win again," said the Aussie with a wink.

The cameras captured laughter, jokes, shared food, and genuine moments. The staff also recorded some individual interviews with fun questions.

[Recorded Confessional – Lia]:

"Who would you do an escape room with again?"

"Hmm… Chan was a really good leader. But I also had a lot of fun with Hyunjin. Although, if we’re talking pure chaos… I’d probably choose Han and IN. You never know what’s going to happen." She laughed.

[Recorded Confessional – Seungmin]:

"Who was the most useless today?"

"Just one? What a tough question…"

[Recorded Confessional – Changbin]:

"Are you upset about losing?"

"We didn’t lose. We won in style, charisma, and funny lines. And that’s what really counts!"

By late afternoon, the sun was slowly setting and the atmosphere had softened. Chan looked around: everyone was relaxed, happy, sharing food and stories as if the cameras didn’t exist.

"We really needed a day like this," he commented, more to himself than to anyone else.

Lia, who heard him, nodded silently. Amid the chaos, clues, and jokes, something deeper had been forged. Camaraderie. Trust. Maybe even something more, in certain eyes that met when the laughter faded.

But that thought was left unspoken… for now.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids

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kaoriartss-blog · 26 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 8: "Pulse"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

It had been two and a half weeks since everything began. One week of chaotic routines, shared early mornings, improvised meals, and small habits that were starting to feel like home.

The house, which at first seemed huge and cold, now pulsed with constant music, laughter echoing through the hallways, and voices calling to each other without much thought. The initial distance had faded without anyone being able to pinpoint exactly when. It had just happened. The laughter was more frequent, the silences less awkward. Everyone was starting to find their place.

That afternoon, they went down to the basement for the first time as a complete group. The mirrored walls, cool lighting, and freshly polished wooden floor contrasted with the warmth of their cohabitation, but everyone was excited to start the physical part of the project: choreography.

“Wow…” Lia murmured, staring at her reflection next to the boys’, all of them in comfortable clothes, hair tied up, ready to sweat.

“Officially: the real work begins,” said Chan in his usual leader tone, though his smile was relaxed.

Minho stepped forward to the center and connected his phone to the sound system. He played an instrumental fragment of the main track, still without vocals—just rhythm, percussion, and a sweeping synth that filled the room with energy.

“Ready to die?” Chan joked, flipping his cap backward as he turned on the speaker.

“Literally or figuratively?” Lia asked, stretching her legs on the floor. She wore a white sweatshirt with the project’s logo and high-waisted pants with side stripes. Felix tossed her a water bottle without a word, smiling.

“Both,” Minho said as he passed her, giving her a light tap with his foot. “We’re gonna sweat like crazy. We're building this from scratch. Marks, bodies, direction, intention. I want to see how the rhythm feels before we even think about steps,” he added, focused.

The session began with stretches led by Hyunjin, who moved with feline grace. Lia followed silently, focused. When it was her turn to propose a sequence, everyone watched her curiously.

She positioned herself, took a deep breath, and let her body speak. Her movements were precise, smooth yet firm, a blend of the European pop style she’d learned as a child and the Korean technique she’d mastered. When she finished, there were a few seconds of silence.

“Can we see that again?” Felix asked, stunned, unable to hide his proud smile.

“Sure, but don’t get nervous trying to copy it,” she replied, winking.

The room filled with laughter, but this time it was different. There was pride, admiration… something softer. More intimate.

“The idea is for the choreography to reflect unity,” Han explained. “But also to have individual moments where each one of us shines. Like the message of the song—finding your voice while connecting with others.”

“Whoa, deep,” Seungmin said, but without sarcasm. Lia smiled at him from her corner, twirling her hair into an improvised ponytail.

The choreography slowly began to take shape. Everyone contributed ideas, correcting each other with growing confidence. Lia was surprised every time Chan or Changbin asked for her opinion directly. And when Seungmin taught her a move she couldn’t quite coordinate, IN joked:

“No way! The international star can’t spin on her left foot?”

“My left foot hates me—it’s always been like that!” she protested, dramatically collapsing onto the floor.

“We’ll trade it for Han’s. He doesn’t use it much,” Seungmin added.

“Hey!” Han said, offended, but ended up laughing too.

By sunset, their bodies exhausted and foreheads sweaty, they all sat on the floor. Someone came down with bottles of water, and another brought snacks.

Felix, seated next to Lia, handed her a towel with a gentle gesture.

“You’re fitting in amazingly, Rimi-ya.”

“So you know that nickname too?” she asked, surprised but amused.

“I heard you the other day talking to your brother on the phone, and I liked the nickname. I wouldn’t forget it. I like how it sounds. More… you.”

Lia looked at him a second longer than usual. There was something different in his eyes. And not just his. In everyone’s. As if the dancing had broken an invisible barrier.

As if they were no longer “a guest idol” and “a group of boys.” But nine people. A team.

After a few minutes practicing the initial steps, it became clear the song would require a lot of energy.

“Rimu-ya, you move too well!” Changbin exclaimed after repeating the sequence for the third time. He was sweating, but clearly impressed.

“Well, I was raised with Greek music, Oppa. If you don’t dance from a young age, you get disowned,” she replied with a soft laugh, lifting her arms gracefully. Felix copied her, dancing like he was at a Mediterranean party.

“Lixie Oppa, you look more Greek than me,” she teased, and Felix laughed as if it were the best compliment of the day. “Too bad we don’t have plates to smash.”

Hyunjin and Han looked at each other. They knew about the Greek tradition of smashing plates and were just about to run to the kitchen to grab some when Minho cut in.

“Don’t even think about bringing out the china. I’ll toss you both into the air fryer if you do.” The two froze at the threat and decided to stay put.

“I say Lili-ya teaches us a sirtaki step for the break,” IN suggested, eyes sparkling.

“That could work as a transition,” Chan added thoughtfully. “Something that fits with the aesthetic of the music video. And don’t forget we’ve got seven MVs planned—we can experiment.”

Ideas started flowing. The references ranged from traditional to experimental, and in the middle of the discussion, small gestures added to their closeness: fist bumps between Lia and Han when a move worked, the way Hyunjin fixed her hair after a spin, the laughter she shared with Minho when they messed up at the same time.

After nearly two hours, they took a short break. Lia sat on the floor between Jeongin and Seungmin, briefly resting on Jeongin’s shoulder.

“My body isn’t used to these hours,” she murmured, half in Greek, half in Korean.

“Was that a curse?” IN asked, laughing.

“That was a cry for help,” she clarified.

“Well then translate it better, Narim,” Seungmin added, sipping his drink. “If you want someone to rescue you, you need to give clear coordinates.”

Lia closed her eyes for a moment. She felt happy, though exhausted. That cold room was becoming another makeshift home. Through steps, laughter, sweat, and shared moments, something real was forming.

And though no one said it out loud, they all felt it: the ConNextions project wasn’t just about uniting voices. It was intertwining hearts.

The afternoon passed relatively peacefully. Lia had received a package from MAC for a collaboration, where she was supposed to try out their new products.

After practice, the boys scattered. Some had schedules outside and wouldn’t return until later at night, while others stayed to work on the project. The house was pretty quiet—perfect timing for Lia to film a video showcasing the products.

She took a shower—practice had left her drenched in sweat—and decided to wear a pretty light blue dress with a leather belt, tying her hair up in a high ponytail. She didn’t apply makeup since she would do it live.

It took her a bit to set up the ring light properly on her desk so it aligned well with the tripod holding the camera connected to her laptop. Once everything was in place, she went live on YouTube.

“Hi guys, it’s Lia here with you,” she greeted with a smile, watching people enter the stream.

She was happy to see so many messages congratulating her on the project and many questions about living with the boys.

“Today I’ll be alone—or I think so. Most of the guys are out of the house, and the ones who stayed… I don’t know what they’re up to. At least it’s finally quiet.”

There were lots of laughing comments and others like, “That house must be chaotic,” “Finally, some silence,” “Keep it up—Lia needs a break from testosterone,” which made her laugh.

“I agree. Living with them is super enriching. I’m learning so much, and the project is going great. But let’s not lie—a bit of silence now and then is so appreciated.” She chuckled and scrolled through the comments. Deciding there’d been enough boy talk, she changed the focus.

“Okay, enough about the boys. I brought you something.”

From under the desk, she pulled out the box MAC had sent her and placed it on the table, within frame.

“MAC sent me their new line to try out with you guys. Plus, there’s a discount code that I’ll leave here.”

She typed the code into a comment and pinned it to the chat. People were thrilled.

Lia opened the box and began showing the camera the different products she pulled out: foundation, blushes, contours, highlighters, various eyeshadow palettes, their iconic lipsticks in multiple shades, eyebrow products, eyeliners, mascara, and even some body fragrances.

Taking advantage of the moment, Lia began showing her new skincare routine, approved by her dermatologist brother, and started putting on makeup with her new products while gossiping with her fans.

She talked about daily anecdotes from her new living arrangements, what they had eaten, makeup tips, and childhood memories.

Lia’s relationship with her fans was like that of best friends—she could talk about anything with them, though of course being careful about certain topics her contract didn’t allow her to disclose.

She was almost done with her makeup when someone knocked on her bedroom door. Confused, Lia looked up with the mascara wand in one hand. She gave a signal to let whoever it was come in, and Han peeked his head in curiously.

—"Sorry, am I interrupting something?"

Lia shook her head with a smile and motioned for him to come in. Han entered holding a small bag in one hand.

—"Hannie Oppa, I’m live right now. Want to say hi?"

He looked at the camera and waved before focusing his attention on the chaotic mess of makeup Lia had spread across the table. The fans in the comments went wild at the sweet nickname—there would definitely be a bunch of TikTok edits later.

—"Looks like you’ve been having fun. What’s all this?"

—"Mac sent me their new collection to try out, and the Starsis and I were catching up on gossip, right?"

Lots of positive comments flooded in, agreeing with her and saying it felt like a bunch of comadres gossiping together.

—"Wait, you left me out of the gossip? Rude. I even came to bring you a piece of cake, being the amazing person I am."

Lia laughed, amused by the interaction.

—"No, no, we were just talking about fun stuff. But now that you’re here—we should try it!" she said, pointing at the bag Han had brought.

He walked over to the table and, without a second thought, took a bite of the cake, smiling mischievously.

—"Mmm, this is amazing," he said, as a small crumb slipped from his lips. Lia couldn’t help but laugh, feeling a flutter in her stomach.

—"You’re such a mess, Oppa," she said, reaching for a napkin to gently wipe his face. The closeness made both of them feel a little more comfortable with each other.

—"So, what gossip did I miss?" Han asked, gesturing toward the camera.

—"Oh, sure—just promise you won’t get mad," Lia joked as the chat flooded with curious comments.

—"What do you mean? I’m a good Oppa!" he replied, putting on an exaggerated offended expression, which made the viewers laugh even more.

The interaction continued, with Lia sharing fun stories from the past few days and Han chiming in with clever remarks that had the chat in stitches. The chemistry between them was obvious, and fans quickly picked up on how they looked at each other, how they smiled.

—"Well, looks like time’s almost up," Lia said, glancing at the clock. "Thanks everyone for joining, and a special thanks to Han for crashing my live. Got anything to say before we go?"

Han turned to the camera, his expression serious but playful.

—"Yeah—but only if you promise not to make edits out of this."

The chat burst into laughter again.

—"They can’t promise that!" Lia replied with a grin, giving him a light push on the arm.

—"Alright, alright. Thanks for watching, guys! See you next time!" Han said, waving goodbye just before Lia ended the stream.

Once the camera was off, the atmosphere shifted instantly. Lia felt a wave of nervousness as she realized they were now alone. Han stood there, watching her with a softer expression.

—"I can’t believe you let them talk bad about me on the stream," he said, crossing his arms in mock indignation.

—"Who said I talked bad about you? I defended you!" Lia laughed, putting her makeup back in its box.

—"Oh yeah? Then why were you looking at me like that?" he asked, stepping a little closer.

Lia felt her heartbeat quicken.

—"I was just thinking about how fun it all was," she said, trying to stay calm.

—"Fun? That’s it?" Han leaned a bit closer, his eyes locked onto hers.

—"Well, fun and… nice. I like spending time with you, Oppa."

Han smiled, a special sparkle in his eyes.

—"I like being with you too," he said softly. "You know, Lia, sometimes I wonder how you have so many followers," he added, his tone becoming more serious.

She raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

—"And why is that?"

—"Because you're not just beautiful. You have this… glow. The way you talk, how you laugh—it's contagious," he whispered, leaning in even closer.

Lia’s heart was pounding, the air thick with tension.

—"Thank you, that’s really sweet of you. But you have your own glow too, Oppa," she replied, the words slipping out without thinking.

He smiled, a flash of joy crossing his face.

—"Maybe we should do livestreams together more often," he suggested, his eyes gleaming with connection. Gently, Han tucked a strand of Lia’s hair behind her ear.

—"Maybe. Or maybe we should just enjoy moments like this… without cameras," Lia replied, feeling the moment brimming with possibility.

Han leaned in even closer, the space between them almost nonexistent.

—"I think that’s a great idea," he said warmly—just as the door burst open, ruining the perfect moment.

IN peeked in with a smile, but the second he saw how close they were, his expression shifted into a pout, then turned mischievous. He stepped away from the open door and, with a cheeky grin, shouted toward the stairs:

—"CHAN-HYUNG! HAN-HYUNG AND LIYA ARE DOING NAUGHTY THINGS!!"

Hearing the yell, Han bolted after IN while Lia tried to process what had just happened.

—"That’s a lie!"

She shouted after them, jumping to her feet as a half-closed blush compact fell to the floor. She ran to the door, face red and hands flailing, not sure whether to laugh, scream, or hide under the bed.

—"Jeongin, get back here right now! We weren’t doing anything!"

From the hallway, the maknae’s laughter echoed through the house, followed by Han’s hurried footsteps chasing after him.

—"I’m gonna kill him!" Han yelled, still running.

—"Hyung, confess your sins first!" IN shouted back between giggles as he dashed down the stairs two at a time.

Lia leaned against the doorframe, covering her face with both hands. The stream was over, sure, but her cheeks were still burning just like when she had tested the blush. She let out a nervous laugh and shook her head, slowly closing the door.

She turned back to her vanity to gather the last of her products. Amid the chaos of brushes, eyeshadows, and eyeliners, she saw the half-eaten piece of cake Han had left behind. She looked at it for a few seconds, then took a small bite.

It tasted sweet. Very sweet.

And for some reason, everything tasted even sweeter after that conversation.

---

Downstairs, Chan and Hyunjin were in the kitchen when they heard the loud footsteps and IN’s dramatic shout.

—"What is it now?" Hyunjin asked, raising an eyebrow at Chan.

Seconds later, Jeongin ran in and hid behind Chan like his life depended on it.

—"Leader protection! Code red!"

—"Code red?" Chan barely had time to react before Han stormed into the kitchen, furious.

—"I’m gonna kill him! I swear, I’m gonna kill him, Chan!!" Han yelled, a mix of rage and embarrassment on his face.

—"What did you do now, IN?!" Chan exclaimed, caught between the two.

—"Nothing! I just walked in while they were about to kiss, that’s all," Jeongin said with a mischievous tone.

Hyunjin, who had just poured himself some coffee, nearly spit it out in shock.

—"WHAT?! Lia and Han?"

Chan stared as if trying to process a million thoughts at once.

—"We weren’t about to kiss!" Han yelled, pulling IN out of his hiding spot. "We were just talking! And you barged in like a fire alarm!"

—"Then why were your faces so close? Hard to hear her or what?" IN retorted, doubled over with laughter.

—"You’re so dead!" Han chased him again through the living room as the others watched, equal parts amused and confused.

Chan rubbed his temples and muttered:

If things keep going like this, the reality show won’t even need editing to be a hit.”

Hyunjin nodded, grinning mischievously.

“The HanLia ship just set sail.”

---

Later that day, once everything had finally calmed down, Lia received a message on her phone.

Hannie Oppa 🐹: Don’t believe IN. I did want to kiss you.

She stared at the screen for several seconds, biting her lip with a mix of nerves and excitement.

She typed a reply. Then deleted it.

Typed another one. Deleted that too.

Finally, she sent:

Lia: Maybe next time there won’t be any interruptions.

And right then, from the other end of the hallway, she heard IN’s voice again.

“Don’t go planning anything naughty again! I’ve got bat ears!”

Lia burst out laughing and collapsed onto the bed. This chapter of her life was just beginning, and it already promised to be chaotic. But also, maybe… the best kind of chaos she had ever lived.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader #stray kids fanfic #poly stray kids #seo changbin x reader #lee know x reader #han x reader

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kaoriartss-blog · 28 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 7: "Time to connect"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The day had been long, and although the house was full of voices and energy, Lia needed a moment to herself. She went up to her room, settled onto her bed with a soft blanket over her legs, and opened her laptop. She clicked on Namgil’s contact. It took a few seconds for him to answer, but when he did, his face appeared on the screen, lit by the dim light of his apartment.

“Rimi-ya,” he greeted her with a half-asleep smile. “I was just about to take Mochi out.”

“Oppa!” Lia smiled instantly. “And my babies? Are they okay?”

Namgil turned the camera, and there they were: Honey stretched out on the couch, Almond dozing on the backrest, and Mochi—the little Shih Tzu—running happily toward him upon hearing Lia’s voice through the speaker.

“Mochi!” Lia exclaimed fondly. “Look at that face… Are they treating you well, huh?”

“I put on your usual relaxation playlist. Almond is still king of the couch, and Honey… well, she rules this place.”

“Same as always,” Lia laughed. “Thank you for staying. I wouldn’t have left peacefully if it weren’t for you.”

Namgil turned the camera back to himself and looked at her gently.

“I know it was hard to leave everything so suddenly. But you’re adjusting well, right?”

“Yeah. The guys are great, though sometimes I feel like I have to try harder not to seem out of place,” she confessed. “But there are moments when I really feel like we’re building something special.”

“That’s what matters. You’ve always been like Mom—you know how to connect with people,” he said. “By the way, have you worked your Greek-Korean food magic yet?”

“Of course. I won them over with spanakopita and kimchi bokkeumbap,” she answered proudly.

Namgil nodded with a mischievous smile.

“I knew they’d fall for it. And you—take care of your health too. If you push too hard, Dad will fly over there and pull your ears.”

“I know… He already scolded me through texts this morning,” she said, holding up her phone.

They said goodbye a few minutes later, not without promising to video call again in three days. When the screen went dark, Lia lay back with a small smile, feeling a little less homesick and a little stronger.

Because no matter how far she was from Busan or her old apartment, as long as her family was just one call away, she didn’t feel alone.

Lia came down the stairs calmly, holding a warm cup of tea. She still felt the warmth of her video call with Namgil in her chest, and the smile hadn’t left her face. The house was quiet—almost everyone seemed to have gone to bed. Only a soft voice floated in from the living room.

“Noona… yeah, I know, I’m eating well. I told you not to worry so much…”

Lia peeked in and saw Changbin sitting on the couch, phone pressed to his ear, his head slightly down, as if trying to sound more relaxed than he was. His brow was slightly furrowed, but the moment he saw her, he paused and gave her a look that seemed to say “just a second.”

“Okay, noona… I’ll send you a photo of my plate tomorrow, alright?” she heard him say before he chuckled a little. “Yeah, love you. Good night.”

He hung up and rested his phone on the back of the couch, letting out a sigh. Lia walked fully into the room.

“Late-night family talk too?” she asked softly, sitting beside him without invading his space.

Changbin looked at her and nodded.

“My older sister. She calls me every night, even if it’s just for five minutes. Says she can’t sleep peacefully if she doesn’t.”

“She sounds a lot like my twin brother,” Lia smiled. “I just called him from my old apartment. He’s taking care of my cats and Mochi.”

“Mochi? The dog?” he asked, curious.

“Yeah. She’s a little cotton-ball tornado,” she said fondly. “You can’t imagine how much I miss her.”

There was a brief, comfortable silence between them. Changbin shifted slightly to face her better.

“You know, I thought it’d be harder to share a house with someone new, someone we didn’t really know. But with you… I don’t know, it just feels natural,” he admitted, his voice tinged with a bit of shyness. “Like you’ve always been part of the chaos.”

Lia looked at him, surprised but touched.

“Thank you, Changbin-ah. Really. You don’t know how much it means to hear that.”

“Sometimes it’s obvious that you’re trying hard to fit in. But you don’t need to,” he added, scratching the back of his neck, clearly uncomfortable with his sudden sincerity. “Just be yourself. And if you ever need a bit of chaos or someone to complain about the gym with, you know where to find me.”

Lia laughed lightly.

“Noted. I promise to invite you for a real meal when I get the chance to cook again. I owe you more than kimchi and olives.”

Changbin smiled, now more relaxed.

“Deal. But only if you teach me how to pronounce those weird Greek dish names properly.”

“Gladly. Though I’ll expect you to teach me how to write a decent rap verse someday.”

“Double deal.”

They both laughed and stayed there, sharing that simple, honest silence. Effortlessly, as if that corner of the couch had been waiting for them from the beginning.

Soft laughter drifted down the stairs as Changbin and Lia remained on the sofa. Within minutes, the silence was interrupted by shuffling footsteps: Hyunjin appeared first, in floral silk pajamas and a poorly applied hydrating face mask.

“What are you two doing down here looking so serious?” he asked, collapsing into a beanbag with the grace of a tired cat.

“Nighttime confessions,” Lia replied with a playful smile.

“Without me? Unacceptable,” Hyunjin huffed dramatically.

Felix arrived shortly after, a pack of cookies in one hand and a blanket draped over his shoulders like a superhero cape. He settled on the floor next to the low table.

“Unofficial meeting? And no one told me?”

“We were waiting for you to bring snacks,” Changbin said, reaching for the cookies.

Minho, Seungmin, and Jeongin showed up shortly after, each with their own excuse for not being able to sleep. Only Chan was missing, and he didn’t take long to appear with his laptop in one hand and a tea bag in the other.

“What is this, an emergency meeting or an improvised sleepover?”

“A bit of both,” Lia said, wrapping herself in the edge of Felix’s blanket. “We’re just… I don’t know, letting our guard down.”

Chan smiled and sat on the floor, for once setting the laptop aside.

“I like that. I think we needed it.”

For a while, no one talked about work or cameras. They passed the cookie pack around, shared silly videos on their phones, and reminisced about past performances. Lia listened with fascination, laughing genuinely at their stories.

At some point, Jeongin asked:

“Do you have any weird stage stories, Lia-ya?”

“Weird ones? Plenty. But the worst was when I lost a shoe mid-jump… and had to finish the choreography barefoot on a stage full of wet confetti. I nearly broke my back,” she said, making everyone burst into laughter.

“That beats when Hyunjin dropped his mic into the crowd,” Seungmin added.

“It was one time!” Hyunjin protested. “And they gave it back quickly. Well… after taking selfies with it.”

The atmosphere became more relaxed, intimate in its own way. Lia lay back on a cushion, watching everyone as if trying to etch the moment into her memory—not as an artist, but as a person.

For the first time in a long while, she felt like she was exactly where she was supposed to be.

The living room had gone quiet. Slowly, one by one, the boys had gone off to their rooms. Only a few scattered cushions, a forgotten blanket, and the soft hum of the fridge in the kitchen remained.

Lia thought about going up too, but she didn’t move. Instead, she picked up one of the cups left on the table and walked to the kitchen to fill it with water. She liked the silence of night. It was the kind of calm you couldn’t fake during the day.

As she turned, she found Chan leaning against the doorway.

“Couldn’t sleep?” she asked, unsurprised.

“Nah. Happens every time we film something important. Takes me a while to come down.”

She nodded, offering him the cup. He declined with a smile and grabbed another from the shelf.

“You couldn’t sleep either?”

“Same reason. It’s like… my body is still, but my mind feels like it’s still on world tour,” she joked, leaning against the counter.

They stayed quiet for a moment, sharing the early hours without rushing. Outside, the city murmured in distant lights.

“You know what surprises me?” Chan finally said, looking into his cup. “How fast you’re adapting to all this. It’s not easy… joining a group that’s already formed, with such a tight dynamic.”

“It’s not that different from debuting,” she replied with a tired smile. “You still feel like the puzzle piece someone forgot. But… something fits too. You guys aren’t making it hard.”

Chan watched her carefully, as if weighing his words before speaking.

“You’re bringing more to us than you think. Not just to the music. There’s an energy in you… something honest. It makes you easy to care for, you know?”

Lia lowered her gaze, a little embarrassed, but also grateful.

“I’m scared I won’t live up to it. Sometimes it’s hard to see in myself what others see.”

“It happens to all of us. More than we say out loud,” he replied in a low voice, almost like a shared secret.

Then, the conversation drifted to lighter topics: ideas for the title track, stories from when they started in music, memories of their families. Time slipped by without them noticing.

By the time they finally went up to their rooms, the sky was already beginning to lighten.

And even though they hadn’t solved anything earth-shattering, they both knew that conversation would remain as one of those invisible moments that form the foundation of a genuine connection.

---

Extra:

The next day began with a quiet kind of chaos.

Lia had overslept. Not unusual for her, but completely out of the ordinary in a house with eight early-rising boys — at least in theory.

When she opened her eyes, sunlight was already pouring through the window, and her phone showed several messages in the group chat:

[08:10] Hannie Oppa🐹: Is the soloist still alive?

[08:12] Oppa on Top🦊: I volunteer to go wake her up!

[08:13] Michi Oppa🐱: If you wake her up, she’ll just fall asleep again.

[08:14] Chris Oppa🐺: Guys, meeting at 9. Make sure you’re ready. Lia included.

She jumped out of bed, got ready in a flash, and ran down the stairs. From the second floor she could already hear voices, and the smell of food guided her to the kitchen.

“Sleeping Beauty has awakened!” Han shouted when he saw her, with a piece of toast in his mouth.

“We were this close to sending you a wake-up serenade with pots and pans,” added Changbin, handing her a cup of coffee like it was a trophy.

“Sorry… I didn’t hear any alarms,” she murmured, messy-haired and still with pillow marks on her cheek.

“Doesn’t matter. You’re just in time to try my omelet,” said Felix, proudly pointing at a steaming plate on the table. “Don’t get too excited, I’m still learning.”

“It looks like a piece of modern art,” Seungmin commented, making everyone laugh.

Lia sat between IN and Minho as the rest continued eating and throwing comments around.

“Did anyone else dream about impossible choreographies last night?” asked Hyunjin, still half-asleep, leaning against the back of his chair.

“I dreamed Mochi was chasing me on a skateboard,” said IN, completely serious.

“That’s not a dream. That’s a vision of the future,” Lia replied, with the first real smile of the morning.

The energy in the kitchen was contagious. Even though the day was just beginning and there was still a lot to do, for now, they were just nine young people sharing a breakfast that was chaotic and perfect in its own way.

And as the toaster launched another flying slice and Han tried to save his spilled juice with improvised napkins, they all knew these moments would be just as memorable as the grand stages.

Because, at the end of the day, this project wasn’t just about music.

It was about connections.

Real.

Everyday.

Chaotic.

Priceless

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #lee know x reader #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader #stray kids ot8 #stray kids fanfic #stray kids smut

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kaoriartss-blog · 28 days ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 6: "First ConNexions"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

The house was completely silent when Lia stepped out of her room, her hair still damp and a thermal bag in hand. It was just past six-thirty in the morning, and the only light illuminating the hallway was the soft glow of dawn filtering through the upper floor windows. She had to leave early: that morning was her photoshoot for Dior, her first official activity since the start of the cohabitation project.

She had chosen a discreet yet elegant outfit—something that wouldn’t attract too much attention when leaving, but still reflected her essence. As soon as she stepped through the front door, she found Chan waiting for her at the entrance with a cup of coffee.

"Ready to conquer high fashion?" he asked with a tired smile.

"Only if you promise not to post ugly pictures of me," she replied, joking as she took the coffee.

"I can’t promise that, but I’ll do my best."

They both laughed before she climbed into the company car.

---

The shoot was intense, like all Dior sessions. Structured dresses, flawless makeup, lights as harsh as interrogations, and cameras that captured every detail with surgical precision. But Lia was in her element. She had learned to coexist with the flashes, to use her gaze as an extension of the concept. When it finally ended, by late afternoon, they offered her food, but she asked to be taken straight home. She had something more important that afternoon.

---

It was nearly five when Lia stepped into the common room. The boys were already there, sprawled across cushions, laptops, and water bottles. In the center of the table were printed folders labeled: “ConNextions.” The logo combined minimalist typography with a stylized design that linked the letters “N” and “X.”

"Ah, you made it just in time!" Han exclaimed with a theatrical gesture.

"How was the shoot?" Minho asked, sitting on the floor with a bowl of fruit.

"Intense, but good. Dior doesn’t play," she replied, dropping her bag over the back of the couch. "Did you guys already start?"

"We were just about to open the folders," Chan said, seemingly slipping back into his formal leader tone.

"So... is this officially the beginning?" Felix asked, visibly excited.

"Yes. This is the start of the real work," said Chan, opening the folder in front of him. "The album will be titled ConNextions, with 'next' highlighted to reflect this new stage in our careers, together. We want to explore the idea of connections that transform us and push us toward the future."

Lia nodded, flipping through the folder. The concept deeply resonated with her.

"There’ll be twelve songs in total," Seungmin continued, reading from a sheet. "Six will be collaborations between the eight of us and Lia. Then, four tracks will be just Stray Kids, and two will be Lia’s solos."

"Seven of those songs will have music videos, in case you want to start imagining what kind of visuals you see," Hyunjin added, visibly excited.

"And is there already a concept for the title track?" Lia asked, looking at Chan.

"Yes. That’s what we want to discuss with everyone today. But the basic idea is a song that celebrates the search for identity and the importance of emotional connections," he replied. "We want something energetic, vibrant, with strong choreography, but with a clear message: finding yourself also means letting others find you."

"And we wanted to hear how each of you feels about it," said Changbin. "What does ‘connection’ mean to you?"

There was a brief, thoughtful silence.

"For me," said IN, crossing his arms, "it’s when I don’t have to explain how I feel. Just being there, and the other person already gets it."

"I think it’s something that changes over time," Hyunjin added. "Sometimes you think you’re connected to someone or something, but then you realize you’re not. And other times, you connect without even noticing—subtly but deeply."

"In my case," said Felix, looking at Lia without hiding his sincerity, "this collaboration is a dream connection. I never imagined that an artist I admired would become part of my work, and now my everyday life."

Lia smiled, looking down slightly. A faint blush tinted her cheeks.

"For me… connection is also vulnerability. It’s letting yourself be seen, even when you’re not fully ready. And having that person—or those people—stand by you anyway."

Chan nodded, satisfied.

"Then that will be the foundation of the title track. Something that represents all of us, not just as artists, but as people growing and discovering ourselves in the process."

"And the sound? Are we thinking electronic, something organic, mid-tempo ballad with power?" Han asked.

"I’d like something hybrid," Lia suggested. "Strong percussion, a mix of electronic and acoustic. But with a chorus that feels like a hug."

"That!" exclaimed Changbin. "A rhythmic hug!"

The ideas began to flow with excitement. Soon they were talking about lyrics in different languages, about including Greek and Australian elements, and small details that would give the album character. The production team, sitting on the side taking notes, could barely keep up with the pace of the conversation.

But the most important thing was already on the table. ConNextions was no longer just a name or a printed folder. It was real. It had been born right there—among chaotic ideas, knowing glances, and the shared desire to create something that resonated beyond the spectacle.

---

The air in the recording room had that distinctive smell: a mix of warm cables, reheated coffee, and the polished wood of the soundproof panels. Lia stood still for a moment after entering, taking in the walls lined with acoustic padding and shelves filled with equipment. It was a space that breathed creativity and pressure in equal measure.

"Welcome to the sanctuary," said Chan from behind the central console, with a smile that tried to look casual but couldn’t hide his pride.

"Does it always smell like this when you’re producing?" Lia asked, scrunching her nose a little.

"That’s Changbin’s snack stash," Han replied, spinning in his chair with a chip dangling between his fingers.

"Hey! Ideas need fuel!" Changbin protested. "And these snacks have produced hits."

Lia laughed and sat on the couch in the back, where a notebook was already waiting for her.

"So where do we start?"

Chan turned his screen toward her, showing an open file in the production software. On the digital timeline were several layers: a percussion base, soft synth chords, and a vocal melody with no lyrics yet.

"This is an early draft for the title track. We wanted something that combined strength and emotion," he explained. "Dynamic percussion, like you asked, and a more ethereal bridge to represent that moment of introspection before the chorus kicks in."

"And we’re still figuring out the hook," added Han. "We want a short but powerful phrase, something that sticks with you."

"What if we use something in Greek?" Lia suggested. "It could be a single word that captures the whole concept. Like koinónia. It means communion, but in the sense of sharing something deep."

There was a beat of silence. Then Changbin raised his eyebrows, impressed.

"And how do you pronounce that?"

"Koy-no-nía," she replied, emphasizing the syllables. "It could go right before the chorus, like a sort of call."

"I love it," said Chan, already typing the idea. "It’s unique, and it has that sense of identity we were looking for."

"Do you have a melody in mind?" Han asked.

Lia hummed a soft fragment, repeating koinónia as if calling out to someone in the distance, then building up in an ascending sequence.

Chan recorded it right away.

"That could work as a pre-chorus. If we harmonize it well, it’ll be one of those live moments that feels almost spiritual."

"And then we could drop hard into the beat," added Changbin, tapping the rhythm on the table with his fingers.

The excitement grew. For the next two hours, they worked without noticing the time. Lia proposed lyrical lines based on personal experiences, while 3RACHA switched between production, vocal arrangements, and lyrics in Korean and English.

"This is weird," Han said at one point, half-smiling at her. "Usually it takes us way longer to connect with someone new like this."

"Maybe it’s because I’m also writing from the same place," Lia replied softly. "This project is forcing me to open up. And I don’t think that’s a bad thing."

Chan was silent for a few seconds, then nodded with a small smile.

"That’s how good songs are made."

When they finally paused, it was already nighttime. The rough demo still sounded incomplete, but promising. Lia took off her headphones and stretched with a satisfied smile.

"This is addictive. Is it always like this?"

"Not always," said Changbin with a raspy laugh. "Sometimes we want to smash the laptop with a hammer. But when it flows like today… it’s totally worth it."

"You’ve got talent for this," added Chan, sincerely. "Not just as a singer—but as a creator."

Lia lowered her gaze for a moment, a bit overwhelmed by the compliment, but accepted it with a grateful smile.

"Thank you. I’m ready to keep connecting."

The four of them exchanged looks, knowing that this first meeting in the recording room wouldn’t be the last. The title track had begun to take shape—but more than that, so had something deeper.

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kaoriartss-blog · 1 month ago

Text

Starburst

Chapter 5: "REAL8"

Previous Chapter Masterlist Next Chapter

Pairing: Poly Skz OT8 x Reader idol

Genre: Romance, angst, female Oc

Warning: Use of Oc, romance, angst, swearing, Idol x Idol, 18+ progressive, use of swear words, use of translator.

Series: Starbursts

Summary: The story centers on Lia, a newly debuted solo idol struggling to find her place in the K-pop industry. Despite her talent, she feels like she's missing something, a special connection that helps her shine. The members of Stray Kids, who are at the height of their careers, are drawn to Lia's unique energy when she's invited to collaborate with them on a new album. As they work together, the connection between Lia and the boys intensifies. With pressure from the media and fan expectations, they must find a balance between their careers and personal lives. Comment: First of all, I want to clarify that English is not my first language. I speak Spanish, but I didn't want to deprive you of this story. I'll be using a translator, so it's possible that some phrases might get lost or be incomprehensible. Second, I thank you in advance for taking the time to read. I'll also be uploading the chapters to Wattpad in Spanish and to Ao3 in English.

Updates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. I also remind you that English is not my first language.

Two days had passed, and the project team had made them wake up early. They had to get ready before recording their first group interview. It would be held in the living room with everyone together, and they’d been asked to dress comfortably but presentably.

Lia quickly hopped into the shower. She needed to relax, even if just for a few minutes. The warm water helped ease the accumulated fatigue from the trip and the stress of adapting to an entirely new environment.

When she got out, she sat on the edge of the bed and looked around. Her room was still full of unopened boxes and suitcases, but the golden morning light coming through the window gave it a warm and comforting vibe.

She decided to take a picture and post it on Baubble, since she hadn’t been able to interact with her fans for two days because of the move, and she didn’t want them to suspect anything.

She chose a simple but pretty outfit: a long dark skirt, a loose white t-shirt with subtle embroidery, and a wool sweater over it. She left her hair down, slightly damp, and applied a bit of lip balm and blush. She didn’t want to look too dressed up, but not careless either.

When she came downstairs, she found some of the boys already settled on the couch, laughing at something on Han’s phone. Hyunjin was the first to see her and smiled.

"Hey! You’re right on time. You look great," he said, not taking his eyes off her.

"Thanks. You guys too. Looks like you're taking this seriously," she replied, noticing even Seungmin had coordinated his colors.

"It’s our first official video. Gotta make a good impression," said Minho from the kitchen, holding a water bottle.

Chan was the last to come in, dressed all in black, barefoot, and holding his camera. He clapped his hands to get everyone’s attention.

"Alright. Let’s treat this like a casual chat. The tech crew will film using the fixed cameras, but we’ll also take our own shots, so make sure to glance over from time to time. The goal is to make the audience feel like they’re right here with us."

Lia sat between Felix and IN, tucked into the corner of the couch. To her left, Han. Hyunjin settled in nearby, crossing his legs with a graceful motion.

The interview started with easy questions: how they were feeling, their expectations for the project, what they thought of the house. They responded with jokes, some thoughtful answers, and others off-the-cuff.

"What do you think about living with a female idol for the first time?" asked one of the producers off-camera.

There was a brief silence. Everyone looked at Lia.

"I don’t snore, if that helps," she said, breaking the ice.

Laughter erupted. Changbin nodded, pretending to be relieved.

"That’s already a good start."

"It’s weird, but exciting. We’ve never done anything like this, so it’ll be a challenge for all of us," Chan added with his leader tone.

"Also, Narim-ah is super nice," Han said, winking. She just shook her head, amused.

"I think we’ll learn a lot from each other," Felix added sincerely. "It’ll be a different, but enriching experience."

"And Lia-ya is super organized. I saw her room and she even labeled her boxes," said IN, impressed.

"I just wrote ‘clothes’ and ‘stuff’ on mine," Hyunjin confessed with a shrug.

The atmosphere kept getting more relaxed. Even the more personal questions, like their biggest fears or what they hoped for from this new beginning, were answered with honesty and warmth.

At one point, they were asked to name who they thought they’d clash with the most during the shared living.

"Hyunjin," three voices said at once, jokingly.

"Hey! Why me?" he protested, placing a hand on his chest.

"Because you're the most dramatic," Seungmin replied without hesitation.

"And you hog the bathroom for hours," added Changbin.

"Only when I need to do my hair! Everything else I do fast, I swear," he defended, causing another round of laughter.

"I think the person I’ll clash with the most… is myself," Lia answered after a moment of thought. "It takes me time to adjust, so I’ll probably be a bit quiet or confused at first. But I’ll do my best."

The way she said it—honest yet calm—made several of them look at her in a new light. It was easy to assume someone like her, always so confident and charismatic on stage, had everything under control. But that wasn’t the case.

"You’ll be yelling like the rest of us in no time," said Minho, patting her leg casually.

That small show of trust quietly sealed the tone of their shared life: warm, chaotic, and full of memorable moments.

The interview lasted just over an hour, but the vibe was so chill that no one felt the time pass. When they wrapped up, the tech crew left to review the footage, giving them the rest of the day off—except for one task: film short individual clips sometime that afternoon.

Everyone returned to their own routines. Some finished unpacking, others went out to train. Changbin, in particular, left saying he needed to walk off the food or he’d regret it later.

The house was quiet, only broken by soft laughter from the living room. Most had retreated to their rooms, tired after the long day. But in the kitchen, the light was still on.

Lia was there, collecting dishes that had been left unwashed. She didn’t like leaving things unfinished.

"Still up?" Chan asked, entering barefoot with a cup of tea.

"Couldn’t sleep knowing this was like this," she replied, not stopping.

"Let me help."

They stood on either side of the sink. Chan dried while she washed.

"You did really well today," he said suddenly. "Not just in the interview… you’ve adjusted faster than we expected."

Lia lowered her gaze for a moment.

"I’m just trying to keep up. I still feel out of place sometimes."

"That’s okay. Feeling out of place means you care," he said, with that calm aura of his that always seemed like a balm.

They finished in silence—shared, but comfortable. As they left the kitchen, Chan turned off the light and before going upstairs, said:

"Good night, Lia-ya."

"Good night, oppa."

And for the first time since arriving at the house, she felt like maybe… she was starting to belong.

---

Two days after the interview, the peaceful morning was broken by a group message from the production team:

"Today is the official announcement. Get ready for impact."

Lia read it half-asleep, tucked up to her nose in blankets. It took her a few seconds to process that this was the day. The day the whole world would know that Li∆ and Stray Kids would be living under the same roof for months. Her heart raced.

She decided it was time to get up and ready. After a shower—where she couldn’t stop thinking about possible fan reactions—she let her hair air-dry into soft waves. She wore a short dark green dress with a high neckline and long sleeves. It was spring, but the weather was still unpredictable. On top, she threw on a denim jacket. Her makeup was soft but pretty.

At exactly 10:00 AM, JYP posted the announcement across all its official platforms. A sleek promo image showed the eight members of Stray Kids and Lia in the center, with the title:

"Project REAL8: a unique collaboration between Stray Kids and Li∆. Cohabitation, music, and more."

The reactions were immediate. Within minutes, Stay and Starsis trended multiple hashtags:

#REAL8, #StrayKidsxLi∆, #LiaInTheHouse, #ProtectLia, #WelcomeToOurGirl,

and also some less friendly ones like #WhyIsSheThere or #JYPExplainThis.

Lia scrolled silently through Baubble, sitting next to Han at the dining table. Some fans were thrilled, posting things like:

> “This is our chance to see Lia in her daily life! I’m so happy.”

“SKZ + Li∆ = explosive energy. I can’t wait!”

“I love this combo. So talented and unique. I want to see everything!”

But there were also harsher comments:

> “Hope there’s no awkward moments. This could go badly.”

“Another forced male-female collab?”

“I don’t want her near my bias.”

“Stay didn’t ask for this.”

Han, seeing her expression, nudged her lightly.

"Hey… don’t read the comments for a while. It’s not worth it."

She gave him a half-sad smile.

"I expected it, but… seeing it straight on still hurts a little."

"Most of them just need time. Give it a week and they’ll be making fancams of you like nothing happened."

"You sure?"

"I guarantee it."

That afternoon, Chan gathered everyone in the living room. The tech crew had already set up a fixed camera and tested the stream. The plan was to introduce themselves informally, explain the project, and ease tensions.

They sat almost the same as in the previous interview. Lia was between Han and Felix, this time holding a cup of tea to calm her nerves. In front of them, the screen showed the countdown to the Instagram and YouTube live.

"Just speak naturally. You don’t need to justify anything, just show your excitement," said one of the managers before they went live.

When the stream began, the greetings poured in. Fans flooded the chat in various languages: Korean, English, Spanish, Thai… all eager to see the group dynamic.

Each member had their phone open to read fans’ comments. Lia had a tablet displaying mostly YouTube messages.

"Hello!" some of them shouted together.

"Welcome to the first live of this new chapter," said Chan. "As you’ve seen, we’re working on a special project with Li∆, our housemate and partner for the next few months."

Lia gave a slight bow.

"Hi everyone. I’m Lia, also known as Li∆. I know this might be a surprise for many, but I’m really excited to share this experience with Stray Kids and with all of you."

"We’ll be living together, creating content, making music, and showing our day-to-day lives," added Seungmin. "Nothing is fully scripted, so yes—it’ll be as chaotic as it sounds."

"Even more so with Hyunjin," joked Changbin, drawing laughter.

They talked about the move, how they were adjusting, mentioned the earlier interview, and some funny little conflicts.

"We’ve already had our first arguments over who washes the dishes," IN confessed, raising his hand like he was guilty.

"And Lia cooks better than all of us combined. That was a discovery," said Minho, looking at the camera like he was revealing a universal secret.

Lia smiled, more relaxed now.

"Just returning the good energy I’ve received. I promise more meals if you all keep being so sweet."

The chat filled with hearts.

"We’ll be posting more content in the coming days: vlogs, challenges, behind-the-scenes…" Han announced. "We hope you enjoy and support us with love."

When the live ended, the members all sighed at once. There was tension, sure, but also a new energy in the air. Like something had already started to shift.

"That wasn’t so bad, right?" Chan asked, stretching.

"Not at all," Lia said. "Actually… it was fun."

And on the screen still showing the comment feed, one stood out among thousands:

> “I don’t know why I was afraid. This feels… right.”

---

Night fell slowly, and the house felt oddly calm after the live. Some had gone to their rooms, others were in the kitchen snacking. Lia stayed in the living room, a blanket over her legs and her lyric notebook on them. Even though the day had been long, a melody kept looping in her head and she didn’t want to lose it.

Felix appeared quietly, holding a mug of warm milk. He approached without intruding, as always, and sat beside her on the couch, giving her a soft look.

"Can I?"

"Of course," she said, smiling when she saw him.

They didn’t speak for a while. Lia hummed a gentle progression while jotting down scattered words. Felix watched the notebook closely, recognizing that way people drift into music when it genuinely flows from them.

"Is it for something specific?"

"I don’t know yet. Maybe for the project. Maybe just for me. If I don’t write it down, I lose it."

"I get that. I used to do the same with beats when I was a trainee," he said with a nostalgic smile. "I had a folder full of terrible loops. But I kept them anyway."

Lia giggled.

"I’d love to hear them one day."

"Only if you sing this for me," he replied, pointing at the notebook. "Just a verse."

She thought for a few seconds, then sang softly, barely a melodic thread:

"Maybe this house will feel like home… if I let it breathe with me."

Felix didn’t say anything at first, but his eyes sparkled. Then he nodded, lowering his gaze.

"That’s why I suggested you. Because you have that. The real thing. Sometimes I thought you didn’t know it, but… there was something in your music that made me feel seen. Like someone understood that weird kind of loneliness you can have even when you’re surrounded by people."

Lia blinked, surprised.

"Felix…"

"Sorry, that was intense," he laughed, blushing.

"No. Thank you. No one’s ever told me that before… and coming from you, it means twice as much."

Just then, Changbin came in with a bag of snacks.

"What are the midnight poets up to?" he asked, flopping onto the couch next to them.

"Probably writing the next generational anthem," Lia said, raising an eyebrow.

"While I provide the essential nutrients: rice crackers," Changbin joked, opening the bag and offering them.

"Did you know Binnie writes amazing lyrics in the bathroom?" Felix said, amused.

“Hey!”

“Really?” Lia looked at him, delighted. “I want to see that.”

“There’s nothing to see, just inspiration under pressure,” Changbin said, popping a cookie into his mouth. “But if you want, I’ll show you my notes someday. Though they’re complete mental chaos.”

“That’s the best kind of chaos,” Lia replied. “The creative kind.”

Felix looked at the two of them with a smile. That moment—small and simple—felt like something he wouldn’t want to forget. A part of his world now shared with someone else, someone who seemed to understand it effortlessly.

“Promise me we’ll write a song together—the three of us?”

“Promise,” Lia said, bumping her fist against his.

“Sealed with cookies,” Changbin added, lifting the bag like a trophy.

And amid laughter, crumbs, and half-written verses, the chapter closed as it should: with quiet promises and the beginning of a bond that would only grow stronger.

#bang chan x reader #changbin x reader #felix x reader #hyunjin x reader #seungmin x reader #stray kids x reader #han jisung x reader #in x reader #jeongin x reader #kim seungmin x reader #stray kids fanfic #skz ot8 x reader #skz poly x reader #poly skz x reader #skz x reader

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