Chapter Text
Later that evening, as the rest of the group started winding down, Felix found himself sitting at the kitchen table with Minho and Seungmin. The others had scattered to their rooms or the living room, leaving the three of them alone in the soft glow of the kitchen lights. Felix nursed a warm cup of chamomile tea, its gentle aroma filling the space and soothing his nerves.
Seungmin had his laptop open, scrolling through fan posts and articles, occasionally smirking or laughing at something amusing. “Felix,” he said suddenly, his tone as blunt as ever, “did you see this?”
Felix tilted his head, leaning over slightly to glance at the screen. “What is it?”
Seungmin turned the laptop toward him, revealing a fan post with a collection of Felix’s recent photos. It was a compilation of moments from the day’s event, focusing on his interactions with the hybrid fan and his glowing, freckled smile. The caption read: “Lee Felix: proof that angels walk among us.”
Felix felt his cheeks heat up instantly, the tips of his ears twitching ever so slightly before he caught himself and smoothed them down. “Oh, come on…” he mumbled, embarrassed. “That’s so dramatic.”
“It’s not wrong, though,” Minho chimed in, his voice carrying that teasing edge he often used, though there was a softness beneath it. He sipped his own cup of tea, leaning back in his chair as his sharp eyes observed Felix. “People love you for a reason. You should get used to it.”
Felix groaned, covering his face with one hand as he leaned back in his chair. “It’s just… I don’t know. I’m happy people think that, but it’s hard to believe sometimes.”
Seungmin raised an eyebrow, shutting his laptop and crossing his arms over his chest. “Why? You’re literally one of the nicest people on the planet. And you’ve worked hard to get here. What’s so unbelievable about people loving you?”
Felix hesitated, his dark blue eyes flickering with uncertainty. “It’s just… being a hybrid. Sometimes it feels like people only tolerate me because I’m an idol, you know? Like, if I weren’t in the spotlight, would they still see me the same way? Or would they just see my ears and tail and think I don’t belong?”
The room fell quiet for a moment. Minho set his cup down with a soft clink, his expression unusually serious. “Felix,” he said, his tone steady but firm, “the people who love you don’t love you despite being a hybrid. They love you because you’re you. Freckles, ears, tail, everything. You need to stop thinking you have to prove something to everyone all the time.”
Felix looked down at his tea, his fingers tracing the rim of the cup. “I guess it’s just hard to shake that feeling. Growing up, people always stared, always whispered. And even now, I still hear things sometimes…”
Seungmin leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table. “You’re always going to hear things. That’s just how people are. But it’s not about them. It’s about the people who matter. The ones who see you for who you are.”
Minho nodded in agreement, his sharp gaze softening as he looked at Felix. “And you’ve got plenty of those people, Lix. Look around. You’ve got us. And you’ve got fans who adore you—not because you’re perfect, but because you’re real.”
Felix felt a lump rise in his throat at their words. He hadn’t expected the conversation to take such a serious turn, but there was something comforting about their honesty. These were the moments that reminded him he wasn’t alone in his struggles, that he had people who genuinely cared about him and wanted to see him thrive.
“Thanks,” Felix said softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t say it enough, but… you guys mean a lot to me. More than I can put into words.”
Seungmin rolled his eyes, though there was a faint smile tugging at his lips. “Don’t get all sappy on us now.”
Minho smirked, reaching over to ruffle Felix’s hair. “We already know, dumbass. But it’s nice to hear you say it once in a while.”
Felix let out a soft laugh, the tension in his chest easing as their banter lightened the mood. He took another sip of his tea, savoring the warmth that spread through him—not just from the drink, but from the quiet reassurance of his members’ presence.
Over in the living room, Hyunjin and Jisung were sprawled out on the couch, scrolling through social media. Hyunjin’s sharp eyes narrowed as he came across a comment that rubbed him the wrong way.
“Seriously?” he muttered under his breath, his jaw tightening.
Jisung glanced over, curious. “What is it?”
Hyunjin turned his phone toward him, showing a post that criticized Felix for being a hybrid, claiming he didn’t belong in the idol world. The comment section was a mix of support and negativity, but the words still stung.
Jisung’s expression darkened. “Some people just have too much time on their hands. Don’t let it get to you.”
“I’m not letting it get to me,” Hyunjin replied, his voice low but firm. “But I’m not letting it slide, either.”
Without hesitation, Hyunjin typed out a response, his fingers moving with precision: “Felix is more talented, hardworking, and kind than you’ll ever know. If you can’t see that, that’s your loss—not his.”
He hit send and leaned back, his expression calm but resolute. Jisung smirked, nudging him playfully. “Remind me never to get on your bad side.”
Hyunjin shrugged, his lips twitching into a faint smile. “I just don’t tolerate people talking about him like that. He deserves better.”
The rest of the evening passed in a blur of quiet conversation and laughter, the group eventually retreating to their rooms. As Felix lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, he replayed the day’s events in his mind. Despite his lingering doubts, he felt a warmth growing inside him—a tentative, fragile sense of belonging that he couldn’t ignore.
For the first time in a long time, he felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be.
꧁💛🐱꧂
The morning air was crisp as sunlight spilled through the dorm’s living room windows, casting a golden glow on the scattered mugs and notebooks. The atmosphere was a blend of excitement and focus as the members gathered for their first group meeting of the day. Tomorrow, they were slated to perform at one of the year’s most significant music festivals—an event broadcasted to millions and notorious for its star-studded lineup.
Bang Chan stood at the center of the room, his laptop open on the coffee table as he reviewed the event’s schedule. The rest of the members were sprawled around the space, each in varying states of attentiveness.
“Okay,” Chan began, clapping his hands together, “here’s what we know. We’ll be performing two songs back-to-back: our title track and the fan-favorite remix.” He paused, scanning the room. “This is going to be a big deal—not just because of the audience, but because they’ve given us the closing stage.”
Jeongin let out a low whistle, leaning back against the couch. “The closing stage? That’s huge.”
“It is,” Chan agreed, his expression serious but proud. “This is our chance to really make an impression. Everyone will be watching.”
Felix sat cross-legged on the floor near the coffee table, his dark blue eyes flickering with a mix of excitement and nervousness. His tail curled around his legs, brushing against the hem of his oversized sweater. “Do you think they’ll expect something different because of me?” he asked quietly, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
“They always do,” Hyunjin said bluntly, sitting on the arm of the couch with his arms crossed. His sharp gaze softened slightly as he met Felix’s eyes. “But that’s not a bad thing. You’re not just different—you’re unforgettable.”
Felix’s freckles deepened as his cheeks flushed, and he ducked his head to hide his smile. “Thanks, Hyunjin.”
Seungmin, perched on a chair near the window, snorted softly. “Don’t let it go to your head, Felix. Just focus on hitting your marks and keeping your ears under control.”
“Seungmin,” Jisung scolded, though his tone was more teasing than stern. “Leave him alone. You know his ears are perfect.”
Felix laughed quietly, feeling the group’s attention turn to him in ways that were comforting rather than overwhelming.
The rest of the morning was spent rehearsing, with Minho leading a review of their choreography. He was as meticulous as ever, pausing the music every few minutes to correct a formation or adjust a movement.
“Hyunjin, your turn isn’t sharp enough in the second verse,” Minho said, his voice firm but patient. “And Felix—lift your chin when you move into the bridge. You’re too focused on the ground.”
Felix nodded, wiping sweat from his brow as he reset his position. The mirrored walls reflected his long blonde hair, slightly damp from exertion, and his dark blue eyes locked on Minho’s in the reflection.
“Good,” Minho said after a few more repetitions. “That’s better. Just keep that energy.”
“Are we breaking soon?” Changbin called from the corner, his voice light but hopeful. “Because I think we’ve earned at least one snack.”
“You always think we’ve earned a snack,” Jisung quipped, earning a laugh from the group.
“Five more minutes,” Minho announced, ignoring the protests that followed. “Then you can eat.”
Later, as they gathered in the kitchen to refuel, the conversation turned back to the festival.
“Do you think anyone will try to pull something during the interviews?” Seungmin asked, leaning against the counter with a piece of fruit in hand.
Hyunjin’s jaw tightened slightly, his protective instincts immediately on alert. “If they do, we’ll handle it. Like we always do.”
Chan nodded, his expression thoughtful. “We’re all in this together. If anyone says something out of line, we’ll shut it down, but let’s not go looking for trouble. The focus should be on the music and the fans.”
Felix, who had been quietly nibbling on a sandwich, looked up. “I don’t want you guys to feel like you have to defend me all the time. I can handle it.”
Hyunjin’s gaze snapped to Felix, sharp but not unkind. “It’s not about thinking you can’t handle it. It’s about the fact that you shouldn’t have to.”
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Hyunjin’s words settling over them. Felix felt his throat tighten, the lump of gratitude and emotion too big to swallow.
“Hyunjin’s right,” Jisung said after a beat, his voice softer than usual. “You’re not in this alone, Felix. You never have to be.”
Changbin grinned, trying to lighten the mood. “And besides, who’s going to defend us when you start stealing all the attention on stage tomorrow?”
Felix laughed, the sound breaking the tension and filling the room with warmth. “Thanks, guys. Really.”
As night fell, Felix found himself alone on the dorm’s small balcony, the cool breeze ruffling his hair. He leaned against the railing, gazing at the city lights below. The hum of cars and distant chatter created a comforting backdrop to his thoughts.
The festival felt like a looming giant—both exciting and terrifying. He thought back to the hybrid fan he’d met, her bright eyes and shy smile, and the way her belief in him had sparked something deep inside. Maybe he really could be an inspiration, not just for other hybrids, but for anyone who felt out of place.
The sliding door behind him opened, and Felix turned to see Chan stepping out, a blanket draped over his shoulders.
“Couldn’t sleep?” Chan asked, his tone gentle.
Felix shook his head, smiling faintly. “Just thinking.”
“About tomorrow?”
“Yeah.”
Chan leaned on the railing beside him, the blanket pulled tightly around his frame. “You’re going to be amazing, Felix. You always are. And no matter what happens, we’ve got your back.”
Felix looked up at him, the sincerity in Chan’s eyes grounding him. “Thanks, hyung. That means a lot.”
They stood in companionable silence for a while, the weight of the upcoming event settling into something more manageable. For the first time in days, Felix felt a sense of peace.
꧁💛🐱꧂
The day of the festival dawned crisp and bright, the kind of morning that seemed to hum with potential. The dorm was alive with a mix of excitement and nerves, the members buzzing about as they prepared for the event. Felix stood by the kitchen counter, sipping a cup of tea while Minho carefully braided his hair into a loose, elegant style. His golden locks shimmered under the kitchen light, his dark blue eyes staring into the middle distance as he mentally rehearsed his parts.
“You’re unusually quiet,” Minho commented, his fingers deftly weaving the strands.
Felix blinked, jolted from his thoughts. “Just trying to stay focused,” he admitted.
Minho glanced at him, his sharp eyes softening slightly. “You don’t have to be perfect, you know. Just be yourself.”
Felix let out a quiet laugh. “Being myself feels like the hardest part sometimes.”
Before Minho could respond, Hyunjin swept into the room, his outfit already immaculate. “Felix, you’re going to make everyone lose their minds today,” he said, leaning against the counter with a smirk. “I mean, look at you. Freckles, blue eyes, long hair—you’re unfair competition.”
Felix rolled his eyes, though his ears twitched slightly at the compliment. “You’re not so bad yourself, Hyunjin.”
The van ride to the festival was a blend of chatter and silence, the members alternating between hyping each other up and retreating into their own thoughts. Felix sat by the window, watching the city blur past as his tail curled loosely in his lap. His fingers absently brushed against the fur, the sensation grounding him.
“You okay?” Jisung asked from beside him, his voice low enough that the others wouldn’t hear.
Felix nodded, offering a small smile. “Yeah. Just…you know. Big day.”
Jisung nudged him gently. “You’ll kill it, Lix. You always do.”
Backstage, the energy was electric. Staff members bustled around, clipboards in hand, while other artists prepared in their own sections. The Stray Kids dressing room was relatively calm, though the undercurrent of anticipation was palpable.
Changbin was stretching in the corner, his hoodie pulled over his head as he focused on warming up. Chan was deep in conversation with one of the coordinators, discussing last-minute adjustments to their set. Jeongin and Seungmin were sharing a pair of earbuds, bobbing their heads to the beat of their practice track.
Felix stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the silver chains around his neck. His outfit—a sleek black-and-silver ensemble—highlighted his hybrid features in subtle but striking ways. His ears, tipped with gold from a touch of safe dye, twitched nervously as he smoothed his shirt.
“You look amazing,” Changbin said as he walked past, giving Felix’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze.
“Thanks, hyung,” Felix murmured, his voice soft but steady.
When it was finally their turn to take the stage, the group huddled together in a tight circle. Chan’s voice was firm but warm as he delivered a quick pep talk, his eyes scanning each of their faces.
“This is it,” he said. “We’ve worked hard for this moment, and no matter what happens, I’m proud of every single one of you. Let’s show them what Stray Kids is all about.”
The group cheered quietly, their hands stacking in the center of the circle before breaking apart. As they walked toward the stage, the roar of the crowd grew louder, the energy vibrating through the air like a living thing.
Felix took a deep breath, his tail flicking once behind him before he stilled it. This was where he belonged—on the stage, with his members, sharing their music with the world.
The performance was electric.
Their first song was a high-energy anthem, the choreography sharp and powerful as the crowd erupted in cheers. Felix hit every move with precision, his voice carrying through the stadium as he delivered his lines with a confidence that felt almost surreal.
By the time they transitioned into the remix, the atmosphere was at a fever pitch. The remix’s softer, more emotional tone gave Felix a chance to showcase his vocal range, his deep timbre sending shivers through the audience. The spotlight lingered on him during his solo, and for a moment, the world seemed to shrink to just him and the music.
As they exited the stage, their breaths coming in quick gasps, the members exchanged grins and pats on the back.
“That was incredible,” Jeongin said, his face glowing with excitement.
“You were amazing out there, Felix,” Chan said, his voice filled with pride. “That solo? Unbelievable.”
Felix’s cheeks flushed, his ears twitching as he ducked his head. “Thanks, hyung.”
Back in the dressing room, the atmosphere was jubilant. Staff members congratulated them, and the screen in the corner replayed snippets of their performance. Social media was already buzzing, with hashtags for Stray Kids trending worldwide.
Felix sat on the couch, scrolling through his phone as the others celebrated around him. Tweets and posts poured in, praising the group’s performance and singling out Felix for his standout moments.
@stay4life: “Felix’s vocals in the remix?? I’m crying. He’s a literal angel.”
@hybridfan13: “The way Felix just OWNS the stage with his ears and tail on full display…we don’t deserve him.”
@ot8forever: “Stray Kids closing the show AND Felix getting the spotlight he deserves? Tonight was perfect.”
Felix smiled to himself, his chest swelling with pride. For the first time in a long while, he felt truly seen—not just as a hybrid, but as an artist and performer.
As the night wound down, the group gathered in their van for the ride back to the dorms. The mood was relaxed, the earlier tension replaced with a quiet satisfaction.
“You guys crushed it,” Chan said, leaning back in his seat with a content smile.
“Felix especially,” Hyunjin added, his tone light but sincere. “You’re going to be all anyone talks about tomorrow.”
Felix glanced around at his members, the warmth in their gazes wrapping around him like a blanket. “Thanks, guys. I couldn’t have done it without you.”
“You’re one of us,” Changbin said simply. “We rise together.”
Felix’s tail curled slightly at the words, a sign of his growing comfort. For the first time that day, he allowed himself to relax, leaning into the shared strength of the group as they made their way home.
꧁💛🐱꧂
The morning after the festival, the dorms were unusually quiet—a stark contrast to the roaring crowds and buzzing energy of the previous night. Felix stirred awake to the sound of his phone vibrating incessantly on the nightstand. Blinking against the morning light, he reached for it, his dark blue eyes still bleary from sleep.
Notifications flooded his screen: mentions, retweets, and comments from fans who hadn’t stopped talking about the performance. Clips of his solo, zoom-ins on his ears and tail, and heartfelt messages of support filled his feed.
He sat up slowly, scrolling through the posts.
@STAYsUnite: "Felix"s stage presence is otherworldly. His vocals, his visuals, his everything?? Perfection."
@HybridNation: “Felix is such an inspiration. Watching him embrace his hybrid nature so openly is helping me feel more confident about being myself, too. 🐾💛”
@kpopjunkie: “Give this man an award already. Felix’s solo was the highlight of the festival.”
His freckled cheeks flushed as he read the comments. His tail, which had been resting lazily on the bed, swayed slightly before he caught himself and stilled it. He glanced across the room to see Seungmin still buried under his blankets, soft snores barely audible.
Felix smiled to himself. It’s just me making this bigger in my head.
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. “Lix? You up?” Jisung’s voice came through, cheerful but cautious.
“Yeah, come in,” Felix called, pulling the blankets around his lap.
Jisung peeked his head in, his phone already in hand. “You’ve seen the internet, right?”
Felix’s ears twitched. “Yeah. It’s… a lot.”
Jisung came in fully, flopping down onto the edge of Felix’s bed. “It’s not just a lot—it’s everywhere. Your name’s trending in like five countries. You’re the moment, bro.”
Felix laughed nervously. “It feels surreal. I’m just… me.”
“‘Just you’ is exactly why people love you,” Jisung said firmly, his round face unusually serious. “You don’t have to try to be anything else.”
By the time Felix shuffled into the kitchen, the rest of the members in their dorm were waking up. Minho was already at the counter, frying eggs while Jeongin sipped on a yogurt drink at the table.
“Morning, star of the festival,” Minho teased without looking up from the pan.
Felix rolled his eyes, though a small smile tugged at his lips. “Good morning, hyung.”
“Have you eaten?” Minho asked, sliding a plate onto the counter.
“Not yet,” Felix admitted, sitting down beside Jeongin.
“Good, because I’m not dealing with you passing out from not eating after you blew everyone’s minds last night.”
Jeongin chuckled softly, but his eyes held a glimmer of admiration. “Felix-hyung, I saw some posts from hybrid fans. They’re saying how much you inspire them. Did you see those?”
Felix hesitated, the weight of Jeongin’s words pressing on him. “Yeah, I saw some. It’s… it’s nice to know it means something to them.”
“It means a lot more than you think,” Jeongin said earnestly, his voice soft but sincere.
Over in the other dorm, the atmosphere was similarly lively.
“Look at this,” Hyunjin said, holding his phone out to Chan and Changbin. They were gathered in the living room, scrolling through comments and articles about the festival.
The screen showed a compilation of Felix’s moments from the performance, overlaid with captions like “A performance to remember” and “Felix proves why he’s a star.”
“I swear, people can’t stop talking about him,” Hyunjin said, pride evident in his voice. “As they should.”
Chan nodded thoughtfully. “I was worried about how the hybrid angle might be spun, but the response has been overwhelmingly positive. That’s good for Felix, but it’s also a huge step for other hybrids in the industry.”
“Still, we should keep an eye out for any negativity,” Changbin added, his tone serious. “You know how people can be. If anyone starts running their mouths…”
“They’ll deal with us,” Hyunjin finished darkly.
Chan chuckled softly. “Let’s focus on supporting Felix. He’s probably feeling the pressure from all this attention, even if it’s good.”
Later in the day, the two dorms reconvened at the company building for a debriefing meeting with their manager. Felix walked in with his head slightly lowered, though his steps were steady. The others immediately gravitated toward him, forming an unspoken shield of reassurance.
The meeting was short and encouraging. Their manager praised their performance and discussed future opportunities stemming from the festival’s success. “Felix, you were the highlight for a lot of people,” he said with a smile. “We’re already getting inquiries for solo brand deals and appearances.”
Felix blinked in surprise. “Really?”
“You’ve got something special,” the manager said. “Just be ready—it’s going to get busier from here.”
After the meeting, the group gathered in a practice room to cool down and chat.
“You know,” Changbin started, leaning back against the wall, “I think you should do a V-Live, Felix. Fans would love to hear from you after last night.”
Felix’s ears twitched nervously. “A V-Live? Just me?”
“We can join you if you want,” Seungmin offered, his tone casual. “But honestly, I think they’d appreciate just hearing your thoughts. You’re the one they want to connect with right now.”
Hyunjin added, “You don’t have to overthink it. Just be yourself.”
Felix nodded slowly, his tail curling slightly. “I’ll think about it.”
That evening, Felix sat in the dorm’s living room, his phone propped up on the coffee table as he hesitated over the V-Live start button.
“You’ve got this,” Chan said from behind him, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Just talk to them like you’re talking to us.”
Felix took a deep breath and tapped the button.
“Hi, STAY,” he greeted, his voice soft but steady. “I wanted to check in after the festival. It was… amazing, honestly. I can’t thank you enough for your support.”
The chat exploded with messages:
OMG, LIXIE!!
You were INCREDIBLE!!
Our sunshine Felix!!
Felix smiled, his freckles catching the light. “You guys always make me feel so loved. I saw your messages about the performance, and I just… I hope I made you proud.”
As he spoke, the tension in his shoulders eased. His tail swayed slightly, a movement he didn’t bother to hide.
When the V-Live ended, the members were waiting to greet him with cheers and high-fives.
“You killed it,” Jisung said, pulling him into a side hug.
Felix smiled, his heart feeling lighter than it had in days. For the first time, he felt like he wasn’t just surviving the buzz—he was thriving in it.
꧁💛🐱꧂
“A Cat’s New Look”
The atmosphere was unusually quiet in the car. Felix sat in the passenger seat, fingers nervously playing with the edge of his sleeve as he stared out the window. Next to him, Chan drove calmly, one hand on the wheel, the other resting lazily by the gear shift. In the backseat, Jisung hummed along to the faint song playing on the radio, but his eyes kept darting between the two in front.
“You’re too quiet, Lixie,” Jisung finally said, leaning forward and resting his chin between the two seats. “You’re not getting cold feet, are you?”
Felix turned his head slightly, meeting Jisung’s mischievous grin. He gave a weak chuckle and shook his head. “No, I’m not.”
“You sure? Because you look like you’re about to go skydiving without a parachute.”
Chan’s voice cut in smoothly, low and reassuring. “Hey, cut him some slack, Ji. It’s a big change.” He glanced at Felix briefly before returning his eyes to the road. “But a good one. You’ll look great.”
Felix’s ears, hidden under his hood, flicked nervously—something neither of them missed. He’d been talking about dyeing his hair, ears, and tail for weeks now. After everything that had happened recently, the overwhelming media buzz, and his growing confidence with the members, this decision felt… right. Like shedding old skin and stepping into something new.
But it was still nerve-wracking.
“I just hope it doesn’t look weird,” Felix murmured softly.
“Felix,” Chan said, his tone carrying that big-brother firmness, “nothing about you could look weird. Trust me.”
Jisung leaned further forward, his breath practically on Felix’s shoulder. “And if it does, I’ll shave my head in solidarity.”
That earned a genuine laugh from Felix, a sound that eased the tension in the car.
“Yeah, sure,” Felix said, finally cracking a small smile. “I’ll hold you to that, Ji.”
The salon was modern and sleek, filled with the low hum of blow dryers, quiet chatter, and the faint smell of hair products. Felix stood nervously in front of the mirror as a stylist approached, flashing a warm and reassuring smile.
“Felix-nim,” she greeted politely, bowing slightly. “We’re all set up for you. I’ll go over the process before we start, but it’s hybrid-safe, don’t worry.”
Felix gave her a timid smile, his fingers brushing his tail instinctively as it swished behind him. “Thank you.”
Chan and Jisung settled onto a plush couch nearby, close enough to watch and offer support. Jisung, as always, made himself at home, leaning back dramatically. “Don’t mind us, Felix. We’re here for emotional and comedic support.”
Chan smirked. “Mostly comedic support, I’m guessing.”
Felix bit back a smile as he took his seat in the styling chair. The stylist began explaining the hybrid-safe products they’d use—dye specifically formulated for sensitive skin and fur. It was a meticulous process.
“Would you like to see your ears first?” the stylist asked gently once the dye had been mixed and prepped.
Felix hesitated, his tail curling slightly around the chair leg. His ears still twitched under the hood. Slowly, he nodded. The stylist helped him lower his hood, revealing his soft feline ears, currently a sandy blond that matched his natural hair. Felix caught his reflection in the mirror and swallowed, watching as his ears flicked nervously in response to the attention.
“Still cute,” Jisung quipped from behind him, earning a nudge from Chan.
The stylist got to work, her movements professional and gentle as she painted on the platinum dye. Felix sat stiffly at first, feeling vulnerable with both his ears and tail fully exposed. He’d been hiding them for so long that having them in plain sight—even here—felt like being under a spotlight.
Jisung, never one for silence, chimed in at random intervals to keep things light. “Lixie, what if your tail turns out shinier than your hair? You’ll be glowing, like a disco ball.”
Felix laughed softly, his shoulders easing. “At least I’ll be memorable.”
“You’re already memorable,” Chan said casually, crossing his arms and leaning back against the couch. “This is just the icing on the cake.”
The stylist smiled quietly at their banter as she continued, carefully ensuring the dye coated Felix’s fur evenly.
Three hours later, Felix stood in front of the mirror, the final reveal just moments away. The platinum dye had set beautifully, the color sharp and striking against his fair skin. His stylist had carefully trimmed and styled his hair into soft waves that framed his face, and his ears now shimmered a perfect white under the salon lights.
Felix’s tail swished nervously behind him.
“Ready?” the stylist asked softly, her hands hovering near the mirror cover.
Chan and Jisung stood close by now, both watching Felix intently.
Felix swallowed and nodded.
The cover dropped.
For a moment, Felix just stared.
The reflection staring back at him felt like someone he didn’t recognize but also like someone he’d been waiting to meet for a long time. His platinum-white hair caught the light, flowing down to his shoulders like spun silk. His feline ears, now gleaming with the same soft white hue, twitched lightly as if testing their new look. The tail behind him matched perfectly, completing the transformation.
“Whoa,” Jisung breathed, stepping closer. His usual teasing grin softened into something genuine. “Felix… you look unreal. Like a—like a prince straight out of a storybook.”
Chan stood just behind Felix, his gaze calm and full of pride. “You look amazing, Lix. I hope you see it too.”
Felix’s lips parted slightly, his fingers lifting to brush through his hair. His tail curled gently, a quiet sign of contentment.
“It’s… better than I thought,” he murmured, his voice soft. “I feel like…” He trailed off, unable to put it into words.
Jisung leaned in, peeking over his shoulder at the mirror. “You feel like you’re finally you?”
Felix blinked at the reflection before nodding, his smile small but real. “Yeah. Something like that.”
Chan clapped a warm hand on Felix’s shoulder. “You deserve this, Felix. And we’re all behind you.”
When the three of them returned to the dorm, Felix felt a flutter of nerves in his chest again. His hood was down now, and his white ears twitched as the members turned to greet them.
Hyunjin was the first to react, his eyes going wide. “No way—Lixie, look at you!” He rushed over, his hands grabbing Felix’s face gently to examine him. “You’re glowing. I need to take photos right now.”
“Snow prince,” Changbin teased with a grin, though his expression was soft with admiration. “You’ve got everyone beat now.”
Jeongin, the youngest, pointed with wide eyes. “Hyung, your ears look so cool! Can I touch—”
“Nope,” Seungmin cut in dryly, dragging Jeongin back. “Boundaries, Innie.”
The room was full of warmth, the members’ energy a mixture of awe, teasing, and genuine support. Felix felt the anxiety he’d been carrying all day slowly melt away.
“You like it?” Felix asked quietly, his voice small as he glanced at the group.
Chan’s voice rose above the chatter. “We love it, Felix.”
The rest chimed in quickly, a chorus of agreement.
For the first time in a long time, Felix didn’t feel the need to hide.
The dorm was quiet, save for the soft hum of the fridge and the occasional creak of the floorboards. Most of the members had retreated to their rooms after a lively evening of fussing over Felix’s transformation. Felix, however, found himself curled up on the couch in the living room, bathed in the soft glow of a lamp.
He was sitting with his legs tucked under him, a blanket draped loosely over his shoulders. His phone rested on his lap, the screen lit up with endless notifications—tweets, messages, and tags. Social media had already caught wind of his new look. “Snow Prince” was trending, and Felix couldn’t help but feel both flustered and overwhelmed by the attention.
He lifted a hand to his hair, running his fingers through the silken white strands. His ears twitched at the sensation. It still felt strange, seeing himself this way—so stark, so bold. His tail swished gently across the couch cushions, as if trying to soothe his unsettled thoughts.
Felix sighed quietly and leaned back against the couch, staring at his reflection in the darkened TV screen across from him. His new platinum ears stood out even in the dim light, the tips twitching faintly.
“Do you like it?”
The voice startled him. Felix turned his head to see Chan walking in from the hallway, wearing his usual loose sweatpants and hoodie. His hair was a bit of a mess, telling Felix he’d probably just gotten out of bed.
“Hyung,” Felix said softly, pulling the blanket closer around him. “What are you doing up?”
Chan smiled, soft and knowing, as he crossed the room and settled into the chair across from him. “I could ask you the same thing. You’ve been quiet since everyone went to bed.”
Felix looked down at his lap, fiddling with the edge of the blanket. “I couldn’t sleep.”
Chan hummed in understanding, leaning back in the chair. “Is it too much?”
Felix hesitated. “I don’t know,” he admitted honestly. “It’s just… a lot of attention. Everyone keeps saying I look good, but—” He bit his lip, ears flattening slightly. “I don’t know if I see it.”
Chan’s gaze softened as he watched Felix, his younger brother who always carried so much more than he let on. “Felix,” he said gently, “it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. You’re doing something new—something that feels big. But just because it feels strange now doesn’t mean it’s wrong.”
Felix looked up at him, his freckles faint under the low light. “What if it is wrong, though? What if it doesn’t suit me, and everyone’s just being nice?”
Chan sighed softly, leaning forward so his elbows rested on his knees. “You know, when I first dyed my hair, I felt the same way. Everyone said it looked cool, but I couldn’t stop staring at the mirror, wondering if I’d made a mistake.”
Felix tilted his head slightly, his ears perking up again. “You did?”
Chan nodded with a chuckle. “Yeah. But then I realized that the change wasn’t about looking perfect. It was about trying something different—something that made me feel like I was evolving, you know? Like I was growing into a new version of myself.”
Felix sat quietly for a moment, absorbing Chan’s words. He brushed his fingers through his hair again, his tail curling around his side. “It does feel… like I’ve changed,” he admitted softly. “But that’s what’s scary. What if people don’t like this version of me?”
Chan’s eyes softened. “The people who care about you, Felix—the ones who really see you—will love every version of you.” He gave him a small smile “Including us. Especially us.”
Felix blinked at him, his chest tightening with an emotion he couldn’t quite name. He opened his mouth to respond but found that his voice wavered, so instead, he nodded.
Chan seemed to understand, his smile growing just a little. “Come on,” he said, standing and reaching out a hand. “Let’s get you to bed. You’ll feel better after some sleep.”
Felix hesitated, then took Chan’s hand and let him pull him up. The older man gave him a light pat on the head—something he usually avoided because of Felix’s ears, but tonight, it felt reassuring.
As Felix padded quietly to his room, he paused outside his door, glancing back at Chan, who stood by the couch, watching him with that same supportive gaze.
“Hyung?” Felix called softly.
“Yeah?”
“Thank you.”
Chan smiled, his voice soft. “Anytime, Lix.”
Felix stood in front of the mirror in his room, the lamp on his desk casting a soft, golden glow. He pushed back the hood of his sweater and studied his reflection.
His platinum hair fell in gentle waves around his face, his ears blending perfectly into the color. He tilted his head, watching as they twitched in response. His tail swayed softly behind him, as if waiting for his approval.
Felix reached out, pressing his fingertips against the cool mirror. For years, he’d hidden parts of himself—his ears under hats and hoods, his tail tucked away out of sight. Even now, he still fought against instincts he’d spent years suppressing. But tonight… tonight, it felt different.
Chan’s words echoed in his mind.
“The people who care about you will love every version of you.”
He thought of Jisung teasing him endlessly, of Hyunjin’s wide-eyed awe, and the way Changbin had called him their “Snow Prince” without a hint of sarcasm. He thought of Chan, always steady, always reassuring.
Felix let out a quiet breath, and for the first time, his tail curled gently in contentment. His ears flicked forward—not nervously, but with a quiet curiosity.
Maybe it’s okay, he thought, to be seen for who I really am.
Slowly, Felix smiled, the expression small and soft.
He turned away from the mirror, his tail brushing lightly against the edge of his desk as he crawled into bed. As he curled up under the blankets, his ears twitched lightly with the sound of the wind outside. For once, he didn’t feel the need to hide them.
And for the first time in a long time, Felix slept peacefully.
꧁💛🐱꧂
The faint hum of the heater and the scent of fresh coffee nudged Felix awake. Sunlight trickled through the curtains, illuminating the room in soft gold. He blinked sleepily, his ears twitching at the muffled sounds of someone moving around the kitchen. For a moment, Felix stayed still, wrapped up in the cocoon of warmth his bed provided. His tail lay lazily across his legs, swishing faintly in half-conscious contentment.
Then the memory of last night flickered through his mind.
The dye. His ears and tail. The way everyone looked at him—not with judgment or pity, but with genuine awe. Felix rubbed his face with both hands, groaning quietly into his palms.
“You awake in there, Sleeping Beauty?”
The teasing voice outside his door sent his ears snapping up instinctively, and Felix’s freckled face turned toward the sound. “Jisung?”
The door creaked open, and Jisung poked his head inside, grinning ear-to-ear. “Yep, it’s me. You’ve been summoned to the living room. Everyone’s up already.”
Felix peeked out from under the blankets, his ears flattened just slightly. “Why?”
Jisung stepped inside the room, holding out a steaming mug of hot chocolate. “Because we wanna look at your ears again, duh.”
“Jisung—”
“Kidding! Mostly,” Jisung teased, setting the mug on Felix’s bedside table before plopping onto the edge of the bed. He crossed his legs, resting his chin on his hand as he regarded Felix. “You slept in, huh? You must’ve been tired.”
Felix sat up, pulling the blanket around his shoulders as if it were a shield. His hair—now platinum and almost ethereal in the morning light—fell in messy strands around his face. His ears twitched under Jisung’s intense gaze. “Stop staring…” Felix muttered, his cheeks dusted pink.
“I can’t help it,” Jisung shot back with zero shame, reaching out to flick one of Felix’s ears playfully. “You look like you belong in a fairy tale or something. Snow Prince, Ice Elf, take your pick.”
Felix swatted his hand away, though a small smile tugged at his lips. “You’re annoying.”
“And you’re adorable,” Jisung replied with a satisfied grin. “C’mon, get up. The others are making breakfast. Oh, and Hyunjin said if you don’t come out soon, he’s dragging you out himself.”
Felix groaned again, earning a laugh from Jisung.
“Give me five minutes,” Felix mumbled, his tail flicking in reluctant acceptance.
When Felix finally emerged, the living room was a chaotic mixture of noise, laughter, and the clinking of dishes. Minho was at the kitchen counter flipping pancakes with practiced ease while Changbin hovered beside him, stealing bites of fruit. Hyunjin sprawled dramatically on the couch, a pillow tucked under his head, while Chan sat nearby with his laptop open, sipping his coffee. Seungmin and Jeongin were huddled over a phone, snickering at something on the screen.
“Look who decided to join us!” Jisung announced, holding his arms out theatrically as Felix shuffled into the room.
All eyes turned toward Felix, and immediately, the room quieted for a brief moment—just enough for Felix to feel the weight of their attention.
“Morning,” Felix said softly, tugging at the sleeves of his sweater as his tail curled nervously behind him.
It was Hyunjin who broke the silence first. “There he is! Our glowing prince!”
Felix sputtered, his cheeks heating up instantly. “Hyunjin—”
“Hyung’s not wrong,” Jeongin piped up, grinning mischievously as he waved his phone. “The fans are obsessed. You’re trending everywhere. ‘Felix Snow Prince Era.’”
“‘Ethereal beauty,’” Seungmin added, mimicking a dramatic news anchor voice. “‘Fans declare Felix to be a real-life angel.’”
“Stop…” Felix whined, covering his face with his hands as his ears twitched wildly under the teasing.
“Don’t tease him so early in the morning,” Chan chided lightly, though the amused smile on his face betrayed him. He closed his laptop and set it aside before looking at Felix. “How are you feeling today, Lix? Did you sleep well?”
Felix lowered his hands, peeking at Chan gratefully for the distraction. “Yeah. I slept better than I thought I would.”
Minho, finally flipping the last pancake onto a plate, turned around with his spatula in hand. “Good. Because we’ve got a busy day ahead, and you need to be at your best.”
“What are we doing?” Felix asked curiously, tilting his head slightly.
“Photo shoot,” Changbin reminded him, grinning as he grabbed a forkful of pancake. “With your new look, you’re gonna blow everyone away.”
Felix’s tail swished nervously at the reminder. “Already?”
“Don’t worry,” Chan reassured him. “We’ll stick together, and you’ll be fine. This is your moment, Lix.”
Hyunjin suddenly sat up, pointing dramatically. “You’re not allowed to hide behind a hoodie or a hat this time. You have to let the ears out!”
Felix groaned, slumping onto the couch next to him. “You guys are the worst…”
“And you love us for it,” Jisung chimed in, flopping down on Felix’s other side.
Felix’s protests were met with laughter, but as he looked around the room—at his members, his family—he couldn’t help the warmth that filled his chest. The teasing was relentless, but the love behind it was just as undeniable.
The photo shoot was nothing short of overwhelming. From the moment they arrived at the studio, stylists and photographers buzzed around Felix, their excitement palpable. “Your hair and ears are absolutely stunning,” one stylist gushed, running her hands gently through his platinum strands. “It’s like you stepped out of a fantasy.”
Felix fidgeted under the attention, his tail swishing anxiously despite his attempts to keep still. He caught Chan’s reassuring smile from across the room and felt a bit of the tension in his shoulders ease.
When it was time for Felix’s solo shots, the members sat nearby, shouting encouragements and—of course—plenty of teasing remarks.
“More pouting!” Hyunjin demanded dramatically, earning a snicker from Jisung.
“Hyun, stop,” Felix muttered, his cheeks pink as the photographer chuckled.
“Perfect, Felix!” the photographer called out. “You’re doing great. Just one more shot—look straight into the camera this time.”
Felix inhaled, centering himself as he stared into the lens. For once, he let his tail flick freely behind him, and his ears perked slightly, no longer hidden or suppressed.
When the session finally wrapped, the members were the first to rush over.
“You killed it, Snow Prince,” Changbin teased, ruffling Felix’s hair affectionately.
Felix swatted his hand away, but the small, genuine smile on his face spoke volumes.
“I still feel weird,” Felix admitted as they packed up to leave.
“You’ll get used to it,” Chan said warmly, draping an arm around Felix’s shoulders as they walked out. “And until then, we’ll remind you every day just how amazing you look.”
Felix looked up at him, his heart swelling. “Thanks, hyung.”
Chan gave him a small squeeze. “Always, Lix.”
As they stepped out of the studio, Felix glanced at his reflection in the glass doors. For the first time, he didn’t flinch or look away. He saw himself—platinum ears, twitching tail, freckles glowing in the afternoon sun—and he felt just a little bit proud.
He was still Felix. And for now, that was enough.
꧁💛🐱꧂
It had been a few days since the photoshoot, and the whirlwind of media attention had settled into a familiar rhythm. Felix found himself scrolling through his phone between practices, seeing the photos from the shoot flood his timeline. The captions were endless: “Felix redefines beauty!”, “Snow Prince Era is here!”, “An ethereal dream!”. There were even fan edits of him with sparkles and soft lighting, capturing him as if he were the most delicate thing in the world. His heart swelled, but at the same time, a quiet anxiety gnawed at him. The attention was flattering, but it was also overwhelming.
“Everything alright, Lix?” Bang Chan’s voice broke through his thoughts, and Felix looked up to see his leader standing in the doorway, an encouraging smile on his face.
“Yeah,” Felix said quickly, trying to shove his phone out of sight. He didn’t want to seem distracted or ungrateful. “Just… getting used to all the attention, you know?”
Chan walked into the room and sat beside him on the couch. “I get it. It’s a lot. But you’re handling it well. You’re glowing, Felix. You really are.”
Felix smiled faintly, his tail flicking at the comment, though he was still unsure. “I don’t know. It feels… like I’m living someone else’s life sometimes. Like I’m not fully myself.”
Chan nodded, understanding the weight of Felix’s words. “That’s the thing with being in the spotlight. It’s easy to lose sight of who you really are. But you’ve got us, and we’ve got your back. You’re still Felix. Always will be. And as for your hybrid side—well, it’s a part of you. Not something you need to hide.”
Felix’s ears twitched at the mention of his hybrid nature. It wasn’t something he liked to focus on, not when he was surrounded by so many people who didn’t face the same struggles. He had learned to push his hybrid traits deep inside him, almost as if they didn’t exist, though he’d felt more and more pulled toward them recently. He’d been allowing himself to wear his ears proudly, to let his tail sway just a little in moments of comfort, but it still felt unnatural, like he was playing a part.
“I’m still scared,” Felix admitted softly, his gaze drifting to the floor. “I’m scared of… not being enough. Scared of being the one everyone watches but no one truly sees.”
Chan’s gaze softened, and he placed a hand on Felix’s shoulder. “Lix, you’re more than enough. You’re you, and that’s exactly who we need you to be. You don’t have to carry the world on your shoulders. Let us help you.”
Felix nodded, appreciating Chan’s words more than he could express. The kindness in his eyes reassured Felix, grounding him for the moment. He could feel the weight of his insecurities still pressing on his chest, but somehow, just having Chan here, being able to talk openly, made it feel a little less heavy.
Later that afternoon, Felix found himself sitting in a quiet corner of the practice room, scrolling through his phone again. He had to admit, his followers were all incredibly supportive. The hybrid fan base had exploded, with people sharing their stories about their own struggles with identity and discrimination. Felix’s story resonated with so many, and his heart ached as he read the messages from other hybrids who had felt similarly out of place in the world. It wasn’t just about the praise, or the photos, or the glittering comments. It was about what came with it—the responsibility.
His phone buzzed with a notification, and Felix’s heart skipped when he saw that it was a message from the young girl he’d met at the fan meeting.
“I just wanted to say thank you for everything. You made me feel like I’m not the only one. You’re my hero. Thank you for being strong.”
Felix’s fingers hovered over the screen for a moment. He wanted to reply, to let her know that she had helped him just as much as he hoped he had helped her. He was a hero? Felix didn’t feel like a hero. He felt like he was still stumbling through this life, trying to figure out how to be comfortable with himself. How to accept his hybrid identity without feeling like it made him less than.
He sighed, texting a quick reply: “I’m just like you, trying to find my way. Thank you for your words. They mean more than you know.”
Felix stared at the screen for a few more seconds before closing the app and setting his phone down. The weight on his chest remained, but it wasn’t quite as suffocating now. He had people who saw him—not just the idol, but the person behind the persona.
Later that night, Felix found himself lying in his bed, the soft glow of the moon casting shadows on the walls. His tail was draped lazily over his legs, his ears slightly tilted as his thoughts turned inward. He was quiet, introspective, as he thought about everything that had happened recently. The photoshoot, the media attention, the messages, the support from his members—everything was changing, and he wasn’t sure if he was ready for it all.
But then, a soft knock on his door interrupted his thoughts.
“Lix?” It was Chan again, his voice low and gentle.
Felix sat up quickly, a little startled. “Hyung? Is everything okay?”
“Yeah, everything’s fine,” Chan said with a soft chuckle, stepping inside. “I just wanted to check in. You seemed a little… distant earlier. Is there anything you want to talk about?”
Felix hesitated, glancing at his hands, before meeting Chan’s gaze. “I don’t know… I just feel like I’m not sure who I am anymore. Like, I used to have this clear idea of myself, but now… now it feels like I’m just floating.”
Chan nodded, understanding completely. “I get it. Things are changing so quickly, and it’s a lot to process. But you’ve got to remember that it’s okay to take things slow. You don’t have to have everything figured out all at once. You’re still the same Felix, no matter what changes around you.”
Felix’s tail swayed behind him, slowly, as his heart began to settle. “I just feel like I don’t fit in sometimes. Even when I’m with you guys. I know you all love me, but… it’s still hard to believe that I’m worthy of all of this.”
Chan’s expression softened, and he stepped closer, sitting down beside Felix on the bed. “I know it’s hard. And it’s okay to feel like that sometimes. But just remember, you are more than enough. You are loved exactly as you are. Not because of what you do, or what you look like, but because of who you are.”
Felix blinked rapidly, feeling the weight of his emotions rise again. He wasn’t sure why, but the sincerity in Chan’s words brought tears to his eyes. The words he had been too afraid to say to himself were finally being spoken by someone else.
“I don’t know what I would do without you, hyung,” Felix whispered, his voice trembling slightly.
Chan gave him a small, understanding smile. “You’ll never have to find out, Lix. We’re in this together. Always.”
And for the first time in a long time, Felix felt the walls around his heart crack just a little. He could feel the warmth of the truth, and he knew—he was finally starting to believe it.
꧁💛🐱꧂
The days following that night felt like a gentle shift, a slow unraveling of the knot that had been tied in Felix’s chest for so long. His moments of self-doubt weren’t completely gone, but they were becoming easier to navigate. He found solace in the quiet moments, the times when he could be himself without the spotlight glaring down on him. But there was still one area where he couldn’t help but feel conflicted: the constant battle with his hybrid identity.
It was the weekend, and Stray Kids had a much-needed break from their hectic schedule. The members were lounging around in the dorm, the room alive with soft chatter and the clink of utensils as they ate together. Felix was seated at the kitchen table, absently scrolling through his phone. His tail flicked back and forth, betraying the calm exterior he was trying to maintain. Every so often, he’d catch a glance from one of the members—usually from Chan, or Minho, who seemed to know him best.
“You okay, Lix?” Minho’s voice broke through the quiet hum of the room. He was sitting across from Felix, watching him with a keen eye.
Felix offered a weak smile, setting his phone down. “Yeah, just thinking.” He hesitated, biting his lip. There was something about today, the weight of his own thoughts pressing on him. “I’ve been thinking about how I still hold back… you know, with my hybrid side. My tail, my ears… I can’t stop hiding them sometimes, even when I know I don’t need to.”
Minho raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “You’ve been letting yourself wear your ears more, right? I’ve noticed.”
Felix’s fingers brushed the tip of his left ear self-consciously. His usually white furred ears were still perfectly maintained, but today they were particularly visible, with the platinum sheen they had grown accustomed to in the photoshoots. “Yeah, I’ve been trying, but it’s just so hard. It’s like, no matter how much I want to be more comfortable with them, it feels like I’m not supposed to.”
Minho leaned back, his gaze thoughtful. “You know, when I first started, I was scared, too. Of how people would see me. It took a long time for me to find a way to stand confidently in front of the camera without feeling like I wasn’t enough. But look at you, Felix. You’ve already come so far. It’s not just about letting your hybrid side shine—it’s about letting it exist naturally, in a way that feels right for you. And when you’re ready, it’ll feel effortless.”
Felix took in his words, the warmth of Minho’s confidence washing over him. He had a point—Minho had always been steady, grounded, and maybe that’s what Felix needed. He needed to stop fighting his own nature. He didn’t need to change who he was to fit in; he had to find peace with who he already was.
“I think I’m scared of… being different,” Felix admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m scared that no one will understand. That if I let my true self show, I’ll be seen as weak or less than.”
Minho’s expression softened. “The truth is, Felix, you’ll always be different. We all are, in our own ways. But that’s what makes you, you. That’s why we love you. You’re not ‘less than’—you’re unique, and there’s no one else like you. The sooner you realize that, the sooner you’ll stop seeing your hybrid side as a flaw. It’s part of your beauty, Lix.”
Felix blinked at him, taken aback by Minho’s sincerity. There was something in his voice that struck Felix deep, a reminder that he didn’t have to carry the weight of being everything to everyone. His hybrid nature wasn’t something to hide—it was part of who he was, part of what made him shine.
Later that day, Felix found himself at the practice studio with Chan and Jisung. It was just the three of them, a rare quiet moment amid the chaos of their schedules. They were working through a new dance routine, and Felix’s energy was higher than usual. He felt more at ease, more connected to his body. His tail swayed in rhythm with the music, his ears perked up, and for the first time in a while, he wasn’t consciously holding anything back.
“Felix, you’re glowing,” Jisung said with a teasing grin, though there was an obvious warmth in his voice. “What’s going on?”
Felix turned, surprised by the observation. “What do you mean?”
“I mean, you’re finally letting your hybrid side show, aren’t you?” Jisung said, his eyes twinkling with a knowing look. “Your tail’s been flicking the whole time, and your ears are so alert. You’re actually moving like yourself now.”
Felix felt his cheeks flush but didn’t shy away. There was something freeing about hearing it from Jisung. “I guess I’ve been trying to,” he said, his voice quieter. “It’s still hard, but… I don’t want to hide anymore. Not from you guys, and not from myself.”
Chan, who had been quietly observing, nodded in approval. “You don’t have to hide, Felix. You never have to hide anything from us. If there’s one thing you’ve taught me, it’s that we all have our own things to work through, but we don’t have to do it alone.”
Felix felt the weight on his chest lift, just a little more. His tail curled happily behind him, almost in response to the freedom he was beginning to feel.
As the evening came, Felix found himself walking down the dimly lit hallway of their dorm, his heart full with an unusual sense of peace. He had a rare moment of solitude, and it felt like the perfect time to reflect. He leaned against the wall near the kitchen, breathing deeply, and felt his tail sway with an almost playful rhythm.
Just as he was about to turn and head back to his room, he heard soft footsteps approaching. It was Chan, who had apparently been looking for him.
“Lix,” Chan greeted him gently. “I thought I’d find you here.”
Felix smiled faintly. “Just… thinking.” He tucked a stray lock of hair behind his ear, his gaze steady. “Thank you for everything, hyung. I really needed to hear what you said earlier.”
Chan tilted his head, his eyes softening as he took in Felix’s words. “Anytime, Lix. You know I’ll always be here for you. I know it’s not easy, but you don’t have to do this alone. We’re all in this together, no matter what.”
Felix felt his heart swell at the sincerity in Chan’s words, and for the first time, he allowed himself to fully believe it. The hybrid side of him wasn’t a burden—it was something to embrace. His heart and his tail both lifted in quiet affirmation, as if to say that, yes, he was ready for this journey.
He smiled, more brightly than he had in a long time. “I think I’m finally starting to see that.”
Chan smiled back, reaching out and ruffling Felix’s hair. “Good. Because you’ve always been enough, Felix. You always will be.”
Felix’s smile widened, his tail flicking in contentment. In that moment, standing with Chan, he felt like he was finally starting to see himself for who he truly was—a person with strength, warmth, and the power to be fully himself. And that felt like the start of something beautiful.