Zerobaseone Sickfics [REQUESTS CLOSED]

《Matthew : Forced to Perform》

Written on: Friday, 30.08.2024

Words: 1526

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It was a brisk, crisp morning in Seoul, and the members of Zerobaseone were up early, preparing for their much-anticipated performance later that day. Excitement buzzed in the air as the group gathered in the practice room for a final run-through. However, Matthew, one of the key dancers, wasn't feeling the energy that surrounded the others.

As the others stretched and chatted, Matthew leaned against the wall, a wave of dizziness washing over him. His head pounded, and he felt an uncomfortable warmth spreading through his body. He tried to shake it off, attributing it to nerves, but the symptoms only worsened.

Jiwoong, the group's eldest noticed Matthew's unusual silence and pale complexion. He approached him with concern in his eyes. "Matthew, are you okay? You look like you've seen a ghost." Matthew forced a smile, not wanting to worry others. "I'm fine, Jiwoong hyung. Just... a little tired."

Jiwoong frowned, not convinced. He placed a hand on Matthew's forehead, and his expression immediately darkened. "You're burning up! Why didn't you say anything earlier? You need to rest."

Before Matthew could respond, another wave of dizziness hit him, causing him to stumble slightly. Jiwoong quickly caught him and guided him to sit on the floor.
"You're definitely not performing today." Jiwoong said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"But, hyung-" Matthew began to protest.

"No buts. Your health is more important than anything else. We can manage without you. The last thing we need is for you to collapse on stage." Jiwoong cut him off.

The other members gathered around, concerns evident on their faces. Ricky handed Matthew a water bottle, while Hanbin knelt down beside him, his usually cheerful demeanor replaced with worry.

"We'll just have to adjust the choreography. We can make it work." Ricky suggested, trying to think practically. Despite the warmth of their concern, guilt gnawed at Matthew. "I don't want to let you guys down. We've worked so hard for this performance."

Hao knelt in front of him, his voice gentle but firm. "You're not letting anyone down, Matthew. You're sick. We can't afford to risk your health. Please, just rest." Matthew hesitated, torn between his desire to push through for the group and the undeniable fact that he was in no shape to perform. He knew Hao was right, but the pressure to not disappoint his team was overwhelming.

"I'll just take a nap. Maybe I'll feel better by showtime." Matthew finally said, his voice weak.
Hanbin's eyes narrowed in concern. "Matthew, this isn't just fatigue. You need to see a doctor. We'll call the manager and get someone to take you back to the dorm."
But before Hanbin could make the call, the door to the practice room burst open, and their substitute manager entered, clearly in a hurry. "Guys, we're on a tight schedule today. We need to head to the venue now."

Jiwoong quickly filled the manager in on Matthew's condition, expecting him to agree with his decision to pull Matthew from the performance. However, to Jiwoong's disbelief, the manager shook his head.

"There's no time for that. We can't change the lineup at the last minute. Matthew will just have to push through." Jiwoong stood up, his eyes blazing. "Are you serious? He's burning up with fever! He can barely stand!"

The substitute manager's expression hardened. "We have commitments, Jiwoong. This isn't just about the group, it's about the contracts we've signed. The show must go on."
Matthew, hearing the stern tone in substitute manager's voice, felt a sinking feeling in his stomach. He knew how high the stakes were, but the thought of performing in his current state was terrifying. Yet, he also knew that refusing to perform could have serious consequences for the group.