The practice room's fluorescent lights cast an unforgiving glare on ILLIT's tense faces. Their highly anticipated first comeback, "I'LL LIKE YOU," loomed closer, but unforeseen challenges threatened to disrupt the group's harmony. Sakai Moka, a pillar of strength and agility, now nursed a nagging leg injury. Every carefully calculated step echoed her unyielding determination to perform.Moka winced subtly, shifting her weight to alleviate pressure on her injured leg. Rehabilitation progressed at a glacial pace, testing her patience. Frustration simmered beneath her composed facade, occasionally betraying her as fleeting moments of despair. During a rare break in their relentless rehearsal schedule, Moka's doubts resurfaced."Perhaps I should sit this one out," she suggested, her voice tinged with uncertainty, as the group congregated around her. Yunah countered firmly, her expression blending empathy and resolve. "Your presence makes us whole, Moka. We'll adapt our choreography to ensure your safety and comfort. Your well-being is paramount."Wonhee and Iroha swiftly mobilized to assist Moka during exercises, cleverly modifying dance routines. Minju worked tirelessly to adjust vocal arrangements, ensuring seamless harmonies. This unity bolstered Moka's resolve, reminding her she wasn't alone.Rehearsals intensified, transforming the practice room into a crucible of sweat, perseverance and creative tension. Trust deepened among members as they navigated this trial by fire. "I'LL LIKE YOU" was more than a comeback; it was a testament to their resilience.Disagreements periodically arose, reflecting the song's genre-bending nature. Wonhee cautioned against excessive experimentation, advocating familiarity. Minju passionately countered, emphasizing bold innovation."We can't play it safe forever," Minju insisted. "Our artistry demands evolution." Yunah mediated, her voice infused with calm authority. "Balance innovation with familiarity. Our foundation is strong; let's build wisely."As comeback day drew nearer, tensions escalated. A particularly grueling rehearsal pushed Moka past her limits. Exhaustion, pain and despair converged, prompting her collapse.Tears streamed down her face as she whispered, "I'm holding you back. My injury-"Yunah swiftly enveloped Moka in a reassuring hug. "We're in this together. Your strength inspires us. We'll face this as one."Moka's resolve solidified. Physical therapy accelerated, complemented by targeted adaptations optimizing her participation. The group's unwavering support buttressed her recovery.Rehearsals continued, fueled by determination and unity. ILLIT's comeback preparations forged unbreakable bonds, tempering their resolve. The journey ahead promised triumph and heartache, but together, they stood resilient.
Moka's POV
I trudged through the dorm's entrance, exhaustion weighing heavier than my injured leg. Practice had drained me, physically and emotionally. Flopping onto my bed, I let out a defeated sigh.The others' reassurances echoed in my mind, but self-doubt lingered. "I'm holding them back." The thought gnawed at me like an unrelenting parasite.Flicking through my phone, I paused on a group chat message from Yunah: "You're not alone, Moka. We're in this together." Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. Their unwavering support only intensified my guilt.How could I contribute when every step hurt? When my usual precision faltered? Experimenting with "I'LL LIKE YOU" demanded perfection, but my injury mocked me.I thought of Minju's tireless vocal adjustments and Roha's modified choreography. Their efforts to accommodate me only underscored my inadequacy. Wonhee's quiet encouragement and Yunah's steadfast leadership couldn't dispel the shadows of doubt.The comeback loomed, a constant reminder of my limitations. What if I wasn't ready? What if my weakness tarnished ILLIT's reputation?I buried my face in my pillow, muffling a frustrated sob. The silence of the dorm seemed to amplify my fears. For the first time, I questioned my place in ILLIT.Would I ever regain my strength? Or would this injury forever hold me back?
Minju entered, concern etched on her face. "Moka, you okay? You've been quiet since practice."I forced a weak smile, but it faltered. "I'm fine, just tired."Minju's gaze pierced mine, sensing the lie. She approached, sitting beside me. "Moka?"The facade crumbled. Tears spilled, and I buried my face in my hands.Minju enveloped me in a warm hug. "It's okay, let go."My fears tumbled out between sobs. "I'm holding you back...injury...comeback...what if I fail you all?"Minju's hold tightened. "You're not alone, Moka. We're in this together. Your strength isn't just physical; it's your heart."I recalled the vicious criticism surrounding our debut. "What if they hate us again? What if I'm not good enough?"Minju whispered reassurances, her voice a soothing balm. "Their hate doesn't define us. Our bond, music and passion do. You are enough, Moka. For us, for yourself."3rd person POVThe day of the "I'LL LIKE YOU" showcase dawned, casting a mix of excitement and nerves over ILLIT. Backstage, the group paced, their usual calm replaced by anxious energy.Wonhee, ever the motivator, enveloped Minju in a warm hug. "You've got this, Minju. Your vocals shine."Yunah offered reassuring smiles. "We're in this together. Trust ourselves, trust each other."Moka fidgeted, her injury worries resurfacing. Yunah the group's pillar of strength, stepped in."Moka, your resilience inspires us. You're ready."Iroha, typically serene, betrayed fleeting doubts. Yunah swiftly countered."Iroha, your elegance on stage is captivating. Own it."As showtime approached, ILLIT congregated, hands clasped."Last reminder," Wonhee said. "Breathe, focus and unleash our passion."Minju's voice trembled slightly. "What if-""We've prepared for every scenario," Iroha reassured. "We adapt, together."Yunah's gaze locked onto each member. "ILLIT, we rise above fears. Unite, shine."The lights dimmed, signaling their cue. ILLIT took deep breaths, unified resolve igniting their determination.
They quickly got into position with Wonhee in the center. The instrumental of 'Cherish (My Love)' started to play.
"You know what? Not even god can stop me,
I'll like you."
