Mischief Managed (Stray Kids Oneshots)

Winning A Prize | Yang Jeongin

The neon lights of the arcade flickered above you as you and Jeongin walked through the entrance, the air filled with the sounds of video game music, laughter, and the occasional beeping of machines. It was a rare moment of freedom—a night off for both of you, and Jeongin had insisted that you spend it together at the arcade.

"Ready to win me some prizes?" you teased, nudging him lightly with your elbow as he scanned the row of claw machines and prize booths with determination in his eyes.

Jeongin grinned, his lips curling up mischievously. "You don't have to tell me twice. I'm gonna win you the biggest stuffed animal here, no matter what it takes!"

You laughed, thinking he was only half-joking. He was known for his playful, carefree nature, but when it came to competition, Jeongin was incredibly focused. You knew he was a bit competitive, but the way his eyes sparkled when he made his claim made you feel like he was truly set on this mission.

"I'm serious, okay?" Jeongin said, his tone suddenly earnest. "I want to get you the best prize, something you'll love. You're going to walk out of here with the biggest, fluffiest stuffed animal ever."

You smiled at his enthusiasm, feeling your heart warm. "Alright, Jeongin. I'm counting on you."

He gave you a quick wink before dashing toward the nearest claw machine, a huge grin plastered on his face. It was one of those machines where you had to use the claw to grab a stuffed animal, and there were at least five different types of plushies hanging inside. The one that caught Jeongin's eye was a giant, soft-looking panda that was positioned near the edge, practically begging to be won.

The moment Jeongin put his money into the machine, you could see his focus shift entirely. His brow furrowed as he carefully maneuvered the claw, inching it closer to the panda.

"I've got this," he muttered to himself, completely ignoring everything around him. You stood behind him, watching with amusement as he adjusted his position, determined to get the claw perfectly aligned.

After a few tries, the claw dropped down and snatched at the panda. But just as it began to rise, it slipped out of the claw's grip and fell back into the pile of toys below. Jeongin let out a frustrated sigh, his hands tightening around the controls. "I can do this. One more try."

You smiled, leaning against the machine and watching him. "Don't worry, Jeongin. It's not a big deal. It's just a stuffed animal."

He glanced over his shoulder at you, a look of resolve in his eyes. "No. I promised you I'd win it, and I will. Just you wait."

His focus never wavered, and you admired his determination. You had no idea how long he was willing to spend in front of this claw machine, but you were starting to suspect it would be a while. He inserted another coin and adjusted the controls again, his eyes narrowed in concentration.

It felt like hours passed before the claw descended once more. This time, Jeongin managed to hook the panda just right. He let out a triumphant cheer when the claw lifted it high, holding the plushy in its grasp. As the claw moved toward the prize chute, your heart raced, hoping that this time, it would make it.

"Come on, come on," Jeongin whispered under his breath, willing the machine to work with him.

Finally, with a satisfying click, the panda dropped into the chute, and Jeongin's face lit up with the most victorious smile you had ever seen. He turned to you, grinning from ear to ear, as he handed you the giant stuffed animal.

"There you go!" he exclaimed. "Told you I'd do it."

You couldn't help but laugh, the sight of Jeongin's wide grin and flushed cheeks making your heart swell. "Jeongin, you didn't have to go through all that for me. But... thank you. It's perfect."

He beamed at your words, clearly proud of himself. "I promised, didn't I?" He shrugged, a playful glint in his eyes. "Besides, you deserve it. I mean, look at how cute you are, carrying around this big panda."

You glanced down at the stuffed animal in your arms, now feeling a little embarrassed at how much attention it was drawing. But with Jeongin standing next to you, looking so happy and proud, you didn't mind at all.

"Thank you, Jeongin," you said, your voice soft. "This really means a lot to me."

He shifted on his feet, looking a little bashful. "Of course. I'd do anything for you... And I know it's just a silly stuffed animal, but I hope it makes you happy."

You smiled at him, the warmth in your chest spreading. "It's not the stuffed animal, though. It's the fact that you cared enough to spend all that time just to make me smile. That's what makes it special."

Jeongin's smile softened at your words, and for a moment, he seemed lost in the affection he had for you. The arcade noises faded into the background as you shared a quiet, meaningful moment together, holding the giant panda between you.

"So, what should we do now?" Jeongin asked, his voice filled with excitement once more.

"Well," you said, wrapping your arms around the plushy and snuggling into it. "I think we should go grab some snacks, and then we can try winning a few more prizes. I mean, we're already here... might as well make the most of it."

Jeongin grinned widely, his hand slipping into yours. "Sounds like a plan. Let's make this night legendary!"

And with that, the two of you wandered deeper into the arcade, laughing and enjoying the rest of your evening. But no matter what games you played next or how many more prizes Jeongin tried to win, the best prize of the night would always be the soft, fluffy panda that Jeongin had won just for you.