Kpop Sickfics and Hurtfics Part 2

Anchored by Memories (Taemin)

December was always a chaotic month for Taemin. Between holiday promotions, year-end award shows, and comebacks, there was rarely a moment to breathe. But this year was especially overwhelming. SHINee was releasing a highly anticipated album, SuperM was promoting a group comeback, and Taemin was launching a solo project he had poured his heart into.

Even for someone as seasoned as Taemin, balancing the expectations of three groups felt like juggling with fire.

But none of that compared to the weight that bore down on his heart as December 18th loomed closer—a date he could never forget. It was the day Jonghyun, his beloved hyung, had left them seven years ago.

For Taemin, December 18th wasn't just a date on a calendar. It was a day set aside for mourning, remembering, and reconnecting with his SHINee brothers. Every year since 2017, he, Onew, Key, and Minho spent the day together. They visited Jonghyun's grave, reminisced about their brightest memories with him, and ended the evening at Onew's house, enveloped in the warmth of their shared grief and love.

This year, however, the careful ritual they had upheld for seven years was threatened.

Taemin sat at his desk, flipping through his packed schedule. His eyes froze when he saw the date: December 18 – SuperM Variety Show Filming.

He stared at the entry for a long moment, his chest tightening. He had made it clear to his manager years ago—no schedules on December 18th. That day was sacred.

Panic began to rise in his throat. Grabbing his phone, he called his manager.

"Hyung, why is there a schedule on the 18th?" he asked, trying to keep his voice steady.

His manager sounded distracted. "It's an important variety show, Taemin. The network specifically requested SuperM. You're a key member—you need to be there."

Taemin clenched his jaw. "Hyung, I told you years ago—December 18th is off-limits. I spend that day with my SHINee hyungs to honor Jonghyun-hyung."

The manager sighed, his tone firm. "Taemin, it's been seven years. I understand it's a difficult day for you, but life moves on. This schedule is important."

The words felt like a slap. Taemin's hands began to tremble. "You don't understand," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Jonghyun-hyung isn't just some passing memory. He's family."

"I'm sorry, Taemin, but this isn't negotiable," the manager replied curtly before hanging up.

Taemin stared at his phone, his heart pounding. The words "life moves on" echoed in his mind, each syllable cutting deeper than the last.

That night, Taemin called his SHINee brothers. He dreaded the conversation, knowing it would disappoint them.

Key answered first. "Taeminnie! We were just talking about our plans for the 18th. Are you staying over at Onew-hyung's again this year?"

Taemin hesitated, his throat tightening. "Hyung... I won't be able to join you this year."

The line went silent. Finally, Key's voice came through, sharp with disbelief. "What do you mean you're not coming?"

"They scheduled a variety show with SuperM," Taemin explained, his voice strained. "I tried to get out of it, but the manager said it's important."

Key let out a frustrated sigh. "Taemin, this isn't just any day. You know how much this means to all of us—especially to you."

Onew's voice joined the call, calm but deeply concerned. "Taemin-ah, are you sure you'll be okay? You're always the most emotional on this day."

"I'll be fine," Taemin lied, his voice cracking.