Sanctuary for the Lost and Broken (Skz Fanfiction)

Chan

A/N: This is undoubtedly the most challenging fic I have written, not only because it delves a bit deeper than the rest but also because I wanted to do justice to these symptoms and problems, reflecting them in a realistic and mindful way. So yes, this fic will touch on dark themes at times, but within that darkness, there is always room for beauty—whether it's in the form of friendships, relationships, or the process of healing. <3 This fic is bound to be lengthy, and who knows when it's going to end, so enjoy the journey.

WARNİNGS: Mentiones of eating disorders.

 Chan hadn't intended to push himself to the brink, but as the relentless rhythm of his insomniac, workaholic lifestyle persisted, it was only a matter of time before he reached a breaking point. The lecture hall became a witness to his unexpected surrender.

The exhaustion had been building, masked by a façade of perpetual busyness. Endless nights spent crafting melodies and refining his compositions left little room for rest. His pursuit of perfection and the constant fear of failure drove him relentlessly. Yet, on that fateful day, the relentless strain on his mind and body reached its climax.

As Chan stood before the lecture hall, his vision blurred, and the familiar hum of his thoughts became a dissonant symphony. The room seemed to sway, and he fought to maintain composure. Then, in an instant, everything gave way. He collapsed.

His descent was silent, and the world around him blurred into darkness. Unbeknownst to him, concerned whispers filled the room as his body met the unforgiving floor. For Chan, the moment of surrender was a culmination of self-imposed pressures and the toll they had taken on his well-being.

Chan groggily opened his eyes to find himself in the sterile confines of the university's infirmary. The soft hum of fluorescent lights and the distant murmur of hushed conversations enveloped him. His gaze focused on the concerned eyes of his best friend, Sana, whose strawberry blonde hair was tied in a messy bun, a testament to the worry that had tangled its way into her usually cheerful demeanor.

"Oh, thank God, you're awake. I told you to sleep, you dumbass," Sana scolded, her words laced with a mix of anger and genuine concern. She hovered over him, her eyes scrutinizing his every movement.

Chan managed a weak smile, the weight of his recent collapse lingering in the air. "Guess I didn't listen well enough," he admitted, his voice betraying both exhaustion and a touch of self-deprecation.

Sana's stern expression softened, replaced by a flicker of genuine worry. "You can't keep doing this, Chan. I've been telling you to take a break for ages. Your body can't handle this constant push."

He nodded, acknowledging the truth in her words. The relentless pursuit of musical perfection had taken its toll, and he couldn't deny the toll it was exacting on his health. As the reality of his vulnerability sunk in, Chan felt a mix of gratitude and guilt for having someone like Sana by his side.

Sana's features softened further as she sighed, her anger giving way to a more compassionate tone. "Look, they said you need to rest, and I won't let you protest. You're going to take a break, even if I have to tie you to a chair."

Chan chuckled weakly, appreciating the familiar mix of sternness and caring in Sana's approach. "Thank you, Sana, but you don't have to worry about me. I am capable of looking after myself," he responded, attempting to reassure her, though doubt lingered in her weary eyes.

Sana's stern expression remained unchanged. "Oh really. I guess that's why you are in the infirmary," she retorted, her words cutting through the air. The weight of her concern hung in the silence that followed.

"Look, Chan," Sana continued, her tone softened but resolute. "We've known each other for a very long time now, and this hasn't gotten any better. I would even say it's become worse. I just... I am very concerned, and I can't hide this from your parents anymore, so please seek help. I am begging you. If not for yourself, then do it for me."