Mischief Managed (Stray Kids Oneshots)

The Beauty in Imperfection | Bang Chan

The studio was quiet, the soft hum of machines barely audible as Bang Chan sat in front of the mirror, lost in thought. He had just finished a long practice session with the other members of Stray Kids, but today felt different. As he examined his reflection, his brow furrowed, and his fingers lightly traced the bridge of his nose.

No matter how hard he tried to push the thoughts away, insecurities nagged at him like persistent shadows. Chan had always felt like he didn't quite fit the mold of what an idol should look like, and today, the weight of that feeling felt heavier than ever.

Just as he was about to spiral deeper into his thoughts, the door creaked open. You walked in, your presence instantly lighting up the room. "Hey, Chan!" you called, your voice cheerful and warm.

He turned, forcing a smile on his face. "Hey! What are you doing here?"

"I came to see how practice went!" you replied, stepping closer. But as you looked at him, you noticed the way his smile didn't quite reach his eyes. "Everything okay?"

"Yeah, just tired," he lied, though you could see through it. You knew him too well. There was something off about his demeanor today, a shadow lingering behind his usual bright spirit.

You walked over to the mirror, standing beside him. "You look great, you know? I love how focused you are in practice. You really give it your all."

Chan sighed, glancing back at his reflection. "Thanks, but I can't help but feel like something's off about me."

"What do you mean?" you asked, your concern deepening as you turned to face him.

He hesitated, the words hanging in the air. "It's just... my nose. I don't know, I feel like it's too big or something. Like I don't fit the standard of what an idol should look like."

Your heart ached at his admission. You reached out and gently turned his face toward you, forcing him to look into your eyes. "Chan, you're perfect just the way you are. Your nose is a part of you, and it makes you unique."

"But...," he started, but you cut him off.

"No 'buts,'" you insisted, your voice firm but gentle. "You're not just an idol; you're an incredible person. Your nose doesn't define you, Chan. It's the kindness in your heart, the way you care for the members, and the passion you put into your music that truly matter."

He looked down, biting his lip, as if contemplating your words. "It's just hard sometimes, you know?"

"I do," you said softly, your fingers brushing against his cheek. "But think about all the fans who love you for who you are, not for some idealized version of perfection. Your imperfections make you relatable, and that's what draws people to you."

Chan took a deep breath, searching your eyes for sincerity. "You really think so?"

"Absolutely," you replied, your tone unwavering. "You're not just the leader of Stray Kids; you're Bang Chan. You have a unique charm that no one else has, and that's something to celebrate."

Slowly, a small smile crept onto his face, though the doubt still lingered in his eyes. "You always know how to make me feel better."

"Good, because I'm always here to remind you," you said, a soft smile of your own blooming on your lips. "Now, how about we take a selfie together? I want to show you how amazing you look today."

Chan raised an eyebrow, slightly hesitant. "Really? You want a picture with me?"

"Of course! Now come on, let's capture this moment." You grabbed your phone and positioned it between you, your hearts feeling lighter as you flashed a bright smile.

As you posed, Chan hesitated for a moment, but then he let out a small laugh, the sound warm and genuine. "Alright, let's do this!"

You snapped the photo, and as you checked it, you couldn't help but beam at the sight of his smile—unfiltered and full of life. "See? You look amazing!"

Chan looked at the photo, and for the first time today, his smile reached his eyes. "You know what? Maybe I can live with my nose."

"Exactly!" you cheered, feeling a rush of joy. "You're beautiful, Chan. Never forget that."

He turned to you, the warmth in his gaze making your heart flutter. "Thanks for being here for me. I really appreciate it."

"Always," you promised, your fingers lightly brushing against his hand. "Now, how about we celebrate your beauty with some ice cream? My treat!"

His laughter filled the room, a sound you cherished. "You know I can't resist ice cream!"

As you both left the studio, the weight of insecurity felt lighter, replaced by the warmth of your friendship. In that moment, Chan realized that he didn't have to be perfect—he just had to be himself. And with you by his side, he could embrace every part of who he was, including the parts that made him unique.