DK sat alone in the practice room, the soft hum of the air conditioner the only sound breaking the silence. The room was filled with empty chairs and unused microphones. His throat felt raw, every attempt to sing leaving him more frustrated. Today was supposed to be a day of rehearsal, but instead, he found himself sidelined by a bad throat.
The door creaked open, and Joshua poked his head in. “Hey, DK. You okay?”
DK managed a weak smile. “Yeah, just not feeling great. My throat’s killing me.”
Joshua entered, carrying a tray of steaming tea and honey. “I thought you might need these,” he said, placing the items on a nearby table. “I made sure to bring your favorites. Let’s take care of that throat.”
“Thanks, Joshua,” DK said, his spirits lifting a little.
Joshua sat down beside him, starting to chat about the latest drama series he was watching. His easy conversation and presence helped distract DK from his discomfort.
Just then, Hoshi burst in with his usual energy. “Dance party in the practice room!” he announced, twirling around. “Come on, DK. You can join us for a bit, just some simple moves to get your mind off things.”
DK chuckled despite himself. “I don’t know if I can keep up.”
“Just follow my lead,” Hoshi said, grabbing DK’s hand and pulling him into the room. He led DK in a few light dance steps, his infectious enthusiasm lifting DK’s mood.
Meanwhile, Woozi quietly set up a playlist of DK’s favorite songs. As the soft melodies filled the room, Woozi made sure DK could hear each note, hoping it would bring him comfort.
Mingyu wandered in with a big grin, holding his phone. “Check out this video,” he said, showing DK a compilation of recent practice bloopers. DK laughed as Mingyu played clips of his fellow members tripping over their own feet and making silly faces.
Seungkwan and Vernon soon joined, and Seungkwan exclaimed, “It’s karaoke time! We’re going to sing your favorite songs, and you have to join us—even if just to cheer us on.”
Vernon picked up a microphone and began singing energetically, with Seungkwan harmonizing. Their performances were spirited and full of love, designed to lift DK’s spirits and remind him of the joy he normally brings to them.
Jeonghan arrived carrying a homemade meal, including soft, soothing foods. “I made some things that are easy on your throat,” he said, setting the meal in front of DK. “We can have dinner together and catch up.”
DK enjoyed the meal, appreciating Jeonghan’s thoughtfulness. As they talked, Jeonghan’s reassuring presence helped ease DK’s worries.
Finally, Dino entered the room, holding a neatly folded letter. “I wrote you something,” he said, handing it to DK. “I wanted you to know how much you mean to all of us and that we’re all here for you.”
DK read the heartfelt letter, his eyes welling up. Dino’s words of encouragement were just what he needed to hear. He looked up, his heart full, as Dino added, “We’re all looking forward to hearing you sing again, but for now, just focus on getting better. We’re here with you.”
The members gathered around DK, their combined efforts a testament to their support. Though his throat still hurt, DK felt a renewed sense of hope and comfort. Surrounded by the people who cared about him, he knew he’d be back to singing soon—stronger and more grateful than ever.
