Sakura pov.
I awoke to the faint hum of city life outside my window. Snowflakes drifted lazily in the morning air, their delicate patterns swirling in a gentle dance against the frosted glass. The room i was staying in—a cozy corner of a guesthouse just a few blocks from the studio—felt like a sanctuary. Warm wooden beams framed the walls, and the soft glow of fairy lights i had hung earlier the night before illuminated the space with a comforting ambiance.
As i still lay cocooned in the warmth of the blankets, a flutter of nerves made my stomach twist. Today would be her first full day with Stray Kids. Though their friendliness yesterday had been disarming, part of me still wondered: Could she truly fit into their tight-knit, boisterous group? I rolled onto her side, my thoughts drifting back to Hyunjin's playful antics, Jeongin's dry humor, and Felix's enthusiasm.
With a determined huff, I sat up. "You've got this," i whispered quietly to myself. Today wasn't just about fitting in—it was about making memories i'd cherish forever.
As dressed warmly, layering a cream-colored knit sweater under a thick, navy blue coat. A burgundy scarf and matching gloves completed my ensemble, and i slipped on my sturdy boots before stepping out into the crisp morning air. The streets of Seoul had been transformed overnight into a snow-dusted wonderland. The sidewalks glistened with frost, and my breath puffed out in tiny clouds as she walked briskly toward the studio.
nobody pov.
The short walk gave her time to clear her thoughts. She passed a bustling street vendor selling roasted chestnuts, their sweet aroma mingling with the faint scent of pine trees from a nearby holiday market. She paused briefly to take in the scene: twinkling lights, cheerful chatter, and the hum of Christmas carols from shopfront speakers. It was like stepping into a storybook.
By the time she reached the studio, the warmth of anticipation had replaced her earlier nerves. The door was already slightly ajar, and the familiar sounds of cheerful voices and holiday music spilled out. She stepped inside, instantly welcomed by the smell of something sweet and freshly baked.
"Good morning!" Felix's cheerful voice rang out as he spotted her. He stood near the entrance, holding a tray of muffins that were slightly misshapen but undeniably inviting.
"Good morning," She replied, removing her gloves and smiling warmly.
"Try one!" Felix urged, pushing the tray toward her with a hopeful grin. "I made them myself. And this time, no one can say they're inedible!"
Minho, lounging nearby on the couch with a half-eaten muffin in hand, raised an eyebrow. "They're edible, sure. Barely."
Sakura couldn't help but laugh as she picked up one of the muffins. Its golden-brown surface was dotted with bright red cranberries and flecks of orange zest. She took a cautious bite, and the tangy-sweet flavors melted on her tongue.
"This is delicious!" she said, her eyes lighting up.
Felix turned to Minho, looking triumphant. "See? Someone appreciates my baking skills!"
"She's just being polite," Minho quipped, but there was a ghost of a smile on his lips.
"Alright, enough about muffins,"Chan's voice cut in from across the room. He walked over with a clipboard in hand, his ever-present warmth evident in his easy smile. "Sakura, you're just in time. We're starting the first challenge today!"
"The Twelve Days of Christmas Challenge?" Sakura asked, intrigued.
"Exactly." Bang Chan flipped a page on his clipboard, then gestured around the room. "The theme for today is Winter Wonderland, and we're decorating the studio. Each pair—or team—will handle a section, and by the end of the day, this place should look like a Christmas dreamland."
