Idol [Lee Felix of Stray Kids]

22. Real Life

"How's Charlie?" Bang Chan asked as he noticed Felix in his home. The Aussie native smiled as he put his phone inside his travel bag before zipping it after sending Hana a selfie.

"Hana said that Charlie's fever went down," he replied, and the leader nodded with a relieved smile. He and the others had been worried when they heard Charlie screaming all night after Hana, Charlie, and Felix arrived at the dorms after they landed in Tokyo.

"That's a relief," Hyunjin said, standing nearby when he heard the conversation between the two. "Hana said she's teething, right? That Charlie was fussy and running a fever."

"Yeah," Felix nodded, his brow knitted with concern. "But I hate myself since Hana has been dealing with Charlie's teething on her own for a while, and this is my first time having to witness it."

Bang Chan placed a comforting hand on Felix's shoulder. "It's understandable to feel that way, but you need to remember that teething is tough for both the baby and the parents. You being here for the show is also a part of supporting your family. You're working so hard for them, too."

Felix sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I just wish I could have been there last night to help her out. It feels so wrong to be away when she's going through that."

"It's okay to feel torn," Hyunjin added, his tone gentle. "But think about how excited Charlie will be to see you after the show. All the love you put into your performance will reach her, even if she doesn't understand yet."

Felix managed a smile, grateful for the support from his friends. "I know you're right. I just wish I could be both a performer and a dad, right here, right now."

"Look at it this way," Minho interjected, leaning against a wall with a casual grin. "When you're on stage, you're showing Charlie what it means to pursue your dreams. One day, she'll be proud of her dad not just as a parent, but as an artist."

Felix chuckled softly, feeling a bit lighter. "Thanks, guys. It helps to know I'm not alone in this."

"Of course not," Chan replied, clapping his hands together to shift the mood. "Now, let's focus! We've got a performance to prepare for, and I'm sure we can do it while keeping Charlie close in our hearts."

As they gathered around to start their practice, Felix tapped into the energy of the moment. With every beat and every step, he visualized Charlie watching him with bright eyes, her lips curving into a smile, oblivious to the tough moments of teething but soaking in all the love and passion he was pouring into this performance.

The rehearsal was intense, with every member pushing themselves to keep the energy high. As they danced and sang, Felix found himself lost in the rhythm and spirit of the moment, the stress of the previous night fading into the background. Each kick and spin felt like a way to express his love not only for the fans but also for Charlie and Hana. As they moved through the choreography, Felix imagined the roar of the crowd blending with Charlie's laughter, creating a harmony he longed to achieve.

When they broke for a quick hydration, Felix took a moment to check his messages. Hana had sent a few more pictures—one of their daughter sleeping peacefully, a glimpse of a moment of relief. His heart warmed as he saw Charlie snuggled in her blanket, her tiny hand clutching a soft toy.

"Isn't she adorable?" he whispered to himself, his heart swelling with love and longing.

"Hey, don't get lost in your phone!" Hyunjin called out playfully, tossing a water bottle at him. "We've got a dance break to perfect!"

Felix caught the bottle just in time, laughing as he tossed it back. "Alright, focus mode is back on!" His competitive spirit ignited, and he dove back into the choreography, determined to make this performance unforgettable.