Stray Romance

Chapter 2 - The Pitch

As I pace outside of JYP's office, clutching a manila envelope tightly in my hands, I can't help but feel nervous. Sure, we've known each other for years and he's even almost like a sort of father-figure to me! But... there's a part of me that feels as if all this time and effort is all for nothing. What if he thinks the idea is dumb and shoots it down? What if he wants me to pick an entirely different set of people, even those in 3racha? What if he terminates my trainee contact for even suggesting it? Ok, I'm sure he wouldn't do that... BUT STILL.

Suddenly, the door to his office swings open and I am greeted by the boss himself.

JYP

"Well hello there Chan! So I hear you've got some sort of proposal you'd like to discuss?"

Chan

"Actually, yes! You see, I know that you've been wanting to debut a new group, but don't really know where to begin in terms of concept or even if it's a boy or girl group! So... I've taken it upon myself to hand-select members, including me, for your next male group!"

JYP

"Ahhh, very interesting Chan! How long have you thought about this?"

Chan

"For quite awhile honestly. You know how much it hurt to see the people I've trained with debut before me. Even the ones who trained for far less time than I did..."

JYP

"I know that it was disheartening for you Chan, but there was a reason... I kept you from debuting, even though you were ready."

Chan

"Are you serious? So you mean, you kept me from debuting on purpose?!"

JYP

"Yes... and no. I saw a desire, a hunger if you will. This drive made you work harder Chan, and it's given you the skills that you need to be a very well-rounded member. Or should I say, a well-rounded leader?"

Chan

"L-leader, sir?"

JYP

"You don't have to be so formal Chan. We've known each other long enough after all! But yes, you have the experience, you have the fire within you to make this happen. See? You've already made your own lineup! And knowing how particular you are, I'm assuming you chose well?"

Chan

"Here, have a look."

I toss the manila envelope that I had been holding onto his desk. He opens it and flips through the profiles of the potential members that I had pulled. There was also a picture of us lined up against a dark red background and my concept name for the group.

JYP

"You even went as far as grading them in rapping and vocals AND even how they performed in different styles of dance? And even a name? I would say I'm shocked, but I would expect nothing less from you."

Chan

"Thank you for that."

JYP

"And thank you for this Chan. However, there is a bit of a... snag."

Chan

"What do you mean?"

JYP

"I mean, that some of our board of directors wanted to debut a girl group and already have a perspective lineup planned. The girls have already been informed about this interest too."

Chan

"Oh no! I really don't know if I can wait any longer to debut... What can I do to make my plan go through?"

JYP

"I have the perfect idea for this dilemma, Chan."

Chan

"Well, hit me with this idea!"

JYP

"Inform your perspective members to be camera-ready. Both groups will compete against each other. On TV."

Chan

"Oh wow, umm... I'll let them know right away!"

JYP

"Off you go then! I look forward to see how Stray Kids performs at the trainee showcase in 4 weeks!"

Chan

"Thank you! We'll do our best!"