Mischief Managed (Stray Kids Oneshots)

Under the Stars | Yang Jeongin

The evening sky was a deep shade of indigo, sprinkled with countless stars twinkling like diamonds against a velvet backdrop. Jeongin leaned against the balcony railing of his apartment, a soft breeze gently tousling his hair. Tonight felt special, as if the universe was inviting him to pause and appreciate the moment.

He took a deep breath, inhaling the crisp night air. It had been a long week filled with practice and rehearsals, and he desperately needed a break. As he gazed up at the stars, his mind drifted to thoughts of the future, of dreams yet to be realized.

"Jeongin!" a familiar voice called out, pulling him from his reverie.

He turned to see Deji approaching, her smile brightening the night. She stepped onto the balcony, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "What are you doing out here all alone?"

"Just enjoying the view," he replied, gesturing to the sky. "It's beautiful tonight."

"It really is," Deji agreed, leaning beside him and gazing up. "It feels like the stars are watching over us."

Jeongin chuckled softly. "You always know how to find the magic in everything."

"Maybe it's because I get to share it with you," she said, glancing at him with a teasing smile.

His heart fluttered at her words, warmth blooming in his chest. "You're right. It wouldn't be the same without you here."

Deji turned to him, her expression softening. "You know, I've always admired how hard you work. You put so much effort into everything you do."

"Thanks, but it can be exhausting sometimes," Jeongin admitted, running a hand through his hair. "Sometimes I feel like I'm chasing something I can't quite catch."

"Have you ever thought about taking a break?" she suggested. "Just for a little while? You deserve to relax and enjoy life outside of practice."

He pondered her words, the idea feeling refreshing yet daunting. "I guess I could. But I don't want to let anyone down."

"Your happiness is important too," she said, her voice earnest. "You can't pour from an empty cup, right?"

Jeongin nodded, appreciating her perspective. "You're right. I'll think about it."

Deji smiled brightly, her enthusiasm infectious. "How about we make tonight special? We could have a mini stargazing adventure right here!"

"Sounds fun!" Jeongin replied, a grin spreading across his face. "What do you have in mind?"

"Let's grab some snacks and cozy blankets! We can lay out on the balcony and just... be," she said, already turning to head back inside.

As she disappeared into the apartment, Jeongin felt a surge of excitement. It was these simple moments with Deji that made him forget the pressures of his life. She had a way of turning the ordinary into something extraordinary.

A few minutes later, Deji returned, arms laden with snacks and two fluffy blankets. "Ta-da!" she announced, setting everything down on the balcony.

"Wow, you really came prepared!" Jeongin laughed, helping her spread the blankets on the floor.

They settled down, lying side by side, the night air cool but comfortable. Deji opened a bag of popcorn, and they began munching on the snacks, their laughter mingling with the soft sounds of the night.

"Look at that one!" Deji pointed up, her eyes shining with excitement. "It looks like a shooting star!"

Jeongin followed her gaze, just catching the tail end of a shooting star streaking across the sky. "Did you make a wish?" he asked, his voice playful.

"Of course! I always do," she replied, her tone light. "What about you?"

"I might have to now," he said, a smile tugging at his lips. "But it's a secret!"

"Fair enough!" she laughed, nudging him playfully. "Just promise me you won't wish for anything boring, like more practice."

"I promise," he said, the warmth of their shared moment enveloping him.

As they lay there, the stars twinkling above them, Jeongin felt a sense of peace wash over him. The pressures of his life faded into the background, replaced by the simple joy of being with Deji.

"Thanks for this," he said softly, turning to her. "I really needed it."

Deji looked at him, her expression sincere. "Anytime, Jeongin. You deserve moments like this. Just remember, you don't have to do it all alone."

Her words resonated deeply within him. It was a reminder that he had people who cared about him, who wanted to share both the burdens and the joys of life.

As they continued to stargaze, Jeongin felt a warmth blossoming in his chest, realizing that these moments were what he truly cherished. With Deji by his side, the world felt a little lighter, the stars a little brighter.

With a smile, he made a silent wish—a wish for more nights like this, filled with laughter, connection, and the beauty of simply being together.