Mischief Managed (Stray Kids Oneshots)

Late Night Workouts | Seo Changbin

The cool night air felt refreshing against your skin as you laced up your running shoes, glancing at the clock on your phone. It was late, but you had promised Changbin you'd join him for a jog. You were excited to have this time together, especially since he'd been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately.

When you arrived at the park, you spotted Changbin stretching near a lamppost, the soft glow illuminating his features. He looked up and smiled, his face lighting up at the sight of you.

"Hey! Ready to run?" he called, his voice warm and inviting.

"Always!" you replied, matching his enthusiasm as you joined him for a quick stretch. The park was quiet, the only sounds being the distant rustling of leaves and the soft hum of the city.

As you both started jogging, the rhythmic sound of your footsteps echoed in the stillness of the night. You kept pace beside him, occasionally stealing glances at his profile. He seemed lost in thought, a hint of tension evident in the way his brow furrowed slightly.

"Hey, everything alright?" you asked, slowing your pace to match his. "You seem a little distant."

Changbin let out a soft sigh, his breath visible in the cool air. "I've just been... thinking a lot lately," he admitted. "About everything."

You nodded, encouraging him to continue. "What's been on your mind?"

He paused for a moment, the weight of his thoughts palpable. "Sometimes, I struggle with self-doubt. It feels like no matter how hard I work or how far I go, I'm never enough."

Your heart ached at his words. You could see the vulnerability in his eyes, a side of him that he rarely showed. "Changbin, you're so talented. You work harder than anyone I know. You're more than enough," you said gently, hoping to lift his spirits.

He shook his head, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I know, but sometimes it just feels overwhelming. The pressure to keep up with everything, to always be perfect... it gets to me."

You fell silent for a moment, contemplating your next words. "You don't have to be perfect, you know. You're human, just like the rest of us. It's okay to feel unsure sometimes."

Changbin looked at you, his eyes searching yours for reassurance. "But what if I let everyone down? What if I'm not the person they think I am?"

"Then you don't have to carry that burden alone," you replied softly. "You have people who care about you, who want to support you no matter what. I'm here for you, and I believe in you."

He took a deep breath, absorbing your words. "Thank you. It's just hard to remember that sometimes, especially when I'm in my head."

You slowed your pace even more, allowing the conversation to take precedence over the jogging. "We all have our moments, Changbin. I have my own doubts too. But that's why we lean on each other, right?"

His expression softened, gratitude washing over his features. "You're right. I appreciate you being here. It helps more than you know."

You both paused at a park bench, taking a moment to catch your breath. "Want to take a break?" you suggested, sitting down and patting the space beside you.

Changbin chuckled softly, joining you on the bench. "Sure, I think I could use a moment."

The two of you sat in comfortable silence, the sounds of the night wrapping around you. The moonlight cast a serene glow, and you could see the tension slowly leaving his shoulders.

"Hey," you said after a moment, breaking the quiet. "Just remember, you're not alone in this. Whenever you're feeling down, just reach out. We'll face it together."

He turned to you, a small smile creeping onto his lips. "You really know how to make me feel better, don't you?"

"Just doing my part," you replied, nudging him playfully. "And besides, it's easy when you're worth it."

Changbin laughed, the sound warm and infectious. "You're amazing, you know that?"

You felt your cheeks flush at the compliment. "I'm just being a good friend," you said, brushing it off. "Now, are you ready to finish this jog? Let's show those self-doubts who's boss!"

With newfound determination, you both stood up and resumed your jog, this time with a lighter heart. The conversation had opened a door to deeper connection, the shared vulnerability strengthening the bond between you.

As you ran under the stars, you felt a sense of peace wash over you both, knowing that no matter the struggles ahead, you would face them side by side.