hoodie season || stray kids

8 - shopping

That evening, Chloe came home to her two roommates packing their belongings. "Hey guys," she greeted them, setting her bags to the side. 

"Hey, Hyunseo," came the reply from Mina. "Today I found out that there's a survival show planned. And you guys are taking part." 

"Yeah, it's due to start in two months. The top 7 trainees will debut," Mina explained. 

"So, how many participants are there?" 

"Sixteen. They're naming the show "Sixteen" because of that."

"...This company does NOT know how to name shit, do they?"

"Unfortunately not," Jihyo laughed, zipping up a bag.  

Chloe sighed. "So you guys haven't been home early once this month because of show prep?"

"Yeah, and we're sorry about that, Seoseo. As much as we'd love to spend more time with you, we have so much we need to work on."

"Work on?" Chloe didn't even flinch at the use of the nickname. "Jihyo, you've been training here for ten years. A whole decade. If they don't debut you, or Mina unnie, I have no faith in this shithole of a company."

"I appreciate the compliment, Hyunseo, but there are preparations that need to be made," Mina said softly. "No matter how good we are, there's always something that needs to be improved in the eyes of the company."

Jihyo reached for chloe's hand, noticing how her face softened. "They're going to put us in special dorms designed for the show, so we won't be home that often. In the meantime, you should look after yourself, Hyunseo. Wake up early, don't forget to eat proper food three times a day and stay hydrated. Spend time with your friends, and make memories. We might not interact as much with you if we do debut, but I want you to know that we love you and will always care for you."

Chloe reached over, embracing both girls in a tight hug. "Yes, mums," she replied jokingnly, although her voice betrayed her, coming out in a wobble. "I'll really miss you guys."

"And we'll miss you too, Seoseo."

"One thing I won't be missing is that name," she huffed. 

Mina and Jihyo chuckled. "I thought you'd let me off this once. You let Jihyo say it!"

"Told you I'm her favourite mother," Jihyo grinned, checking her watch for the time. "Okay, we've gotta leave now, or we won't get the best rooms!"

"Am I gonna stay here? by myself?"

"Oh no, no, no, I forgot to tell you!" Mina groaned. "I was supposed to tell you yesterday that you can stay here for three more days, and then you have to find another dorm. There are more trainees joining, and the company is not allowing single-person dorms."

"Where am I going to stay??" chloe panicked.

"I suggest you ask around at school, maybe stay with some friends for a bit. Or you can go to the trainee affairs office and ask for placement. But you have enough time, so don't worry, okay?"

Chloe sighed. "All right, fine. It won't be the same without you..."

The two olders stood to the side, checking they had everything they needed. "Okay, I think it's best we leave now." Jihyo pulled her suitcase to the door, signalling for Mina to follow her. Chloe trotted behind them, like a puppy watching its owner leave the house. "I'll get the door," she said. 

"Thanks, Hyunseo. we'll miss you," Mina smiled sadly. 

"Okay, that's enough soppiness. You're about to debut. Smile! you're JYP Ent's next it girls!"