1000 words
The music filled the practice room as NCT 127 rehearsed their latest choreography, their moves perfectly in sync. The beat seemed to pump directly into their veins, and Jungwoo felt his body respond to every pulse, every rhythm. He loved dancing, but more than that, he knew it was crucial for him. His cystic fibrosis meant that his lungs constantly battled mucus buildup, but dancing helped keep them clear and strong.
Today, though, was tougher than usual. As they moved through each routine, Jungwoo felt himself struggling just a little more, his breath coming up shorter than he liked. His chest felt a bit heavier, and he had to push down the slight irritation in his throat. He told himself it was nothing, just a result of missing his treatments yesterday when their schedule had run long.
They finished rehearsal with one last, powerful pose, everyone panting as they finally caught their breath. Jungwoo smiled and laughed with his members, but inside, he made a promise to himself : "Tomorrow, I'll make sure to get up early and take my treatment properly. No skipping."
The next morning, Jungwoo woke up before his alarm, his phone screen showing 7:00 a.m. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes, got out of bed, and tiptoed out of the room to not disturb his roommate : Jaehyun. They had a show scheduled for later that morning, and the members were planning to leave at 8:30 for the hour-long ride to the studio.
In the living room, Jungwoo took out his CF vest and plugged in his nebulizer. He placed the vest on and switched it on, feeling it begin to shake rhythmically, loosening the mucus in his lungs. His nebulizer buzzed softly as he inhaled the medicated mist, filling his lungs with each breath. He settled back on the couch and scrolled through his phone, watching videos to pass the time while keeping a box of tissues nearby. Every few minutes, he'd pause to cough, the vest helping to shake loose the congestion that came up little by little.
About halfway through his treatment, he heard the quiet sound of footsteps. Doyoung appeared, bleary-eyed and wrapped in a blanket. He gave Jungwoo a sleepy smile and sat down beside him, pulling his legs up onto the couch. A few minutes later, Haechan shuffled in, yawning, and dropped down on Jungwoo's other side. They didn't say much, just hung out with him, their silent company offering a comforting sense of normalcy.
When his treatment ended, Jungwoo took off the vest and finished his nebulizer, then made his way to the kitchen to grab some breakfast and his medication. The other members were starting to stir, grabbing coffee and getting ready for the day. After eating, he took his pills with a glass of water, feeling more ready than ever for the show ahead. The morning sun was streaming through the windows, and he felt a surge of optimism, grateful for a supportive team and a solid start to the day.
Weeks passed in a blur of travel, interviews, and practice as NCT 127's schedule grew busier. Jungwoo made a habit of getting up early for his treatments, but lately, he'd been feeling a familiar heaviness in his chest. He noticed it even more when they started practice that afternoon. Still, he reminded himself to take it easy and be mindful of his limits, hoping that by going a little slower, he could shake off the feeling.
The music started, and Jungwoo moved through the steps, holding back some of his energy to avoid overstraining himself. But about halfway through practice, a deep cough bubbled up from his chest. He turned away, covering his mouth, hoping it would pass quickly. The other members noticed but gave him a moment to recover, thinking it was just a minor thing.
But within seconds, another cough overtook him, and then another. His chest felt as if it were tightening with every breath. He tried to signal to the members, his face contorted as he fought to breathe between coughs. His eyes met Taeyong's, and that was all it took.
"Stop!" Taeyong shouted, rushing over as the other members gathered around. "Jungwoo, are you okay?"
Jungwoo tried to speak, but his words were swallowed up in a fit of coughing. Taeyong pulled out his phone immediately, his voice calm but firm as he called an ambulance. The other members helped Jungwoo sit down, rubbing his back and speaking words of reassurance, even as worry filled their expressions.
The ambulance arrived within minutes, and the paramedics quickly assessed his condition, helping him into the vehicle and ensuring he could breathe comfortably. As they sped off, Jungwoo managed a weak smile, grateful for the members' support. When they arrived at the hospital, he was taken in for tests, where the doctors confirmed he had developed a minor lung infection, likely from their recent travels.
The next few days were spent in the hospital, where he received antibiotics and breathing treatments. The infection gradually subsided, though he remained drained and exhausted from the ordeal. His members visited him each day, filling his room with laughter and snacks, doing their best to lift his spirits. Taeyong often stayed by his side, offering comforting words and encouragement.
After several days in the hospital, the infection was under control, and Jungwoo was finally allowed to return home. The doctor advised him to take it easy for a while, and his members made sure he did, keeping an eye on him as he took his treatments and rested.
For the next week, he focused on building up his strength again, giving himself time to fully recover. He followed his treatments diligently, taking the time he needed to let his body heal. Each day, he felt a bit stronger, and by the end of the week, he knew he was ready to return to practice.
The first day back in the studio, Jungwoo gave his all, pouring his energy into every step. The members could see his renewed strength, cheering him on as he moved with the confidence and power they loved. As he finished the last move, he felt his lungs expand freely, each breath coming in smoothly.
He looked around at his friends and felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. He knew that their support and understanding made all the difference, and that no matter how hard things got, he wasn't alone.
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K-pop sickfics/hurtfics
FanfictionSome K-pop sick/hurtfics/littlespace about my favorite K-pop group. I take request.