Idol [Lee Felix of Stray Kids]

64. Real Life

As the Stray Kids stepped into the hotel suite, the atmosphere was brimming with excited energy. The soft golden glow of the lamps filled the room, casting a cozy light on the decorations that Hana had painstakingly set up. Although simple, the vibrant balloons scattered around the room spoke volumes of her effort. They bobbed gently against the walls, creating an air of celebration that felt appropriate for such a monumental occasion: two wins at the Asia Artist Awards.

"Alright, Charlie Moon," Hana said as she looked at her one-year-old toddler, "ready to welcome APPA and your uncles with a big smile?"

Charlie, her dark hair bouncing as she wiggled in anticipation, gave her mother a toothy grin that melted Hana's heart. She squealed and babbled, clearly excited and oblivious to the stress that had nagged at Hana for the past two weeks. Feeling unwell and battling a mild case of fatigue, Hana had chosen to stay behind instead of risk exposing anyone at the awards show with her lingering cold. Regardless of her worries, the sheer joy radiating from Charlie was contagious.

Just as AiDi texted her that they were on their way back, Hana's heart thrummed with pride and affection, excitement mixing with anxiety. With a quick final glance towards the dining table, set for a feast from the room service menu she had ordered beforehand—bulgogi, kimchi fried rice, and some colorful side dishes—she readied herself for the boys' return.

The moment the door to the suite swung open, Charlie let out a squealy cheer, recognizing her father immediately. Felix, with his signature smile, easily lifted her into his arms, showering her with kisses that filled the room with a chorus of delighted giggles. The rest of the boys filed in after him, each greeting their little niece with the same joy and affection, filling the space with warmth that felt like family.

"Congratulations!" Hana exclaimed, genuine pride shining in her eyes as she stepped forward to embrace Felix. Their embrace was fleeting but tender, a moment shared amidst the joy of victory. "I'm so proud of you all."

"Thanks, Hana!" Bang Chan said, stepping up next to her. He looked a bit tired, but his eyes sparkled with excitement, reflecting the adrenaline still pumping from the night's celebrations. "You should have been there—it was wild!"

At the mention of the awards show, Hana felt a twinge of regret. A part of her wished she had been there to witness their momentous achievement, to join in on the celebrations at least as a spectator. But she pushed those thoughts aside, focusing on the moment, on the smiles of the people she loved dearly.

As the group settled around the lengthy dining table, filling plates with food and sharing stories of their performance and antics backstage, Hana joined in the laughter, savoring the lively atmosphere. However, just as she began to feel at ease, the sensation hit her like a wave—a familiar, unsettling nausea that had been plaguing her for days.

Her stomach twisted violently, and just as a laugh escaped her lips at something Hyunjin had said, she felt a rush of cold sweat prickling her skin. The laughter around her blurred, her mind suddenly racing. She focused on staying composed, but the warmth and happiness faded as an icy grip of unease settled in.

Leaning slightly against the table, she tried to shake it off. "I'll just—" she started to say, but the words barely escaped her lips before she stood abruptly, her chair scraping against the floor. "Excuse me, I need to—"

Before anyone could inquire, she dashed toward the bathroom, the door clicking shut behind her. The sudden commotion sent a wave of silence through the room, eyebrows raised as the guys exchanged concerned glances. Even though they were aware of Hana's recent struggles with her health, her sudden departure, coupled with her distressed expression, put them on high alert.