Harmless || Stray Kids ✔️

37

Hyunjin

I woke up here. The sun burning my irises as I open my eyes. People are walking around, enjoying the nice day. The pond glares at me, igniting my soul to flee. It's not the same one from before. I don't know where I am. Yeah, I'm terrified, but Felix is the only thing I can think of.

Tell it you're not afraid. Could I even show it somehow? How would I do that? I tried staying calm the first time and it got me nowhere. Maybe this'll be different. If no one can see me, I won't have a problem getting around.

I stretch when I stand, uncomfortable with the fact that I'm in my pajamas out in public. As an idol, this is prison worthy. I haven't gotten a glance, though. Nothing in my direction. I can breathe easier knowing that.

I head to a store I see nearby, noticing the many clothes sitting on shelves and racks. If no one can see me, they won't notice someone getting clothes. I'm not a thief — usually. It's not like I can go home. I have no clue where the hell I am. I don't have my phone on me this time, either.

Wait.

After I slip on some sweatpants rather than pajama pants, I head to the back of the store. There's a phone there. If I could find it, I can use it. It's not directly connected to me. It should work, right?

Except for the fact that I haven't memorized my members' phone numbers. My manager will have to do. If this situation is so dire, then it will need to work.

Two rings before he picks up.

"Hello? Who is this?"

"It's Hwang Hyunjin. Listen, I'm-"

"Who is this? Hello?"

I hang it up, rubbing my temples. Why would it work? It didn't work for Changbin. Why would it work here? So stupid.

I head out, deciding to use my time wisely. I'm not afraid, just frustrated. I'm not afraid, though. Not anymore. If I can truly convince myself of that, this'll all disappear.

I go into an art store, grabbing paints, brushes, and a canvas. A single canvas. When I get back outside, the scene has changed again. I still have no idea where I am, but oh well. It'll be fine. I have to wait it out and face my fear.

It doesn't matter how lost I am. I'm a Stray Kid. I'm strong enough to deal with it and fight it. I'm lost, but I'll be found. That's all that matters. I have no reason to fear this. I'll find my way and if I can't, they'll find me instead.

I sit in the grass, beginning my work. A grassy field, the sun shining above, and people surrounding me. I'm okay. I'm not scared. Just focus on my work, and it will be better.

Hours go by. What am I supposed to do when night falls? Sleep on the bench again? Steal a blanket or sleep in a mattress store?

I giggle to myself. "Really, Hyunjin? Sleep in a mattress store? That's not a bad idea, but you don't even know where it is. Steal a blanket it is."

Is what Changbin felt like? Besides the people surrounding me and him not being lost. Our fears are similar, yet different. He had no one, but he knew where he was. I have people around me, but I don't know where I am. How funny.

I adjust the pillow behind my head. I stole an entire bed set. Am I ashamed? No. I walked in and grabbed it. Is this world I'm in even real? Probably? Probably not?

This is probably one of the funniest experiences I've ever had. Why was I so scared the first time? Maybe since I was so unprepared? I can't wait to tell Changbin about this. Stealing so much shit is fun. I hope this doesn't develop into a habit.

I blink.

"Hyunjin, oh, what the fuck?" Jisung screams, falling off of his bed. "Where the... what..."

I'm in Jisung's room. Chan comes running in with Changbin by his side.

"What happened? What's wrong?"

"Hyunjin, you're back!"

"The story I have for you guys is incredible," I stand, resting my hands on my hips. They cock their heads curiously, still confused as to what was going on.

"He just popped in right next to me!" Jisung whisper-shouts. His eyes are wide open along with his mouth. "Witch..." He hisses, getting off of the floor.

"Should we talk in the living room? I think you guys should hear it. It's not important, just funny."

"Did you go?" Changbin questions.

"Mhm! It was fun. Weird, but fun," I giggle, remembering the mattress store idea.

"...okay. Let's go talk. I'll round everyone up."

-

"And then! I stole the entire bed set!" I laugh, wiping my eyes. "It was crazy. I felt so free. Being ignored by everyone isn't as bad as I thought because illegal things aren't even illegal at that point. I was a ghost. I was back in our Ex music video all over again."

They all stare at me as if I was crazy. The only ones cracking smiles are Jisung and Changbin. I stare back with wonder. It was a funny experience to me. Could they blame me for making the most of it?

"I am just happy you're okay, Jinnie," Chan smiles, patting my shoulder. "Did you steal any food or are you hungry? Minho made dinner."

Another smile breaks loose. "Maybe. I'll still eat hyung's food. His food is amazing."

Today was much better than most days recently.