Kpop Sickfics and Hurtfics Part 2

Burning Beneath the Surface (Joshua)

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Joshua had always been one to take things in stride. Known among his members and fans for his calm demeanor and easygoing nature, he rarely let anything rattle him. So, when a popular variety show invited Seventeen to participate in a spicy food challenge, he immediately volunteered.

"It's just food," he joked as the group discussed who should take part. "How bad could it be?"

Jeonghan looked at him skeptically. "Joshua, you're not exactly a spice enthusiast. Are you sure about this?"

Joshua grinned. "I can handle it. Besides, Mingyu, DK, and Woozi are doing it too. I won't be alone."

The day of the recording arrived, and the members cheered as Joshua, along with Mingyu, DK, and Woozi, took their places at the long table lined with bowls of intimidatingly red dishes.

"We'll start off easy," the host announced, gesturing to the first round of mildly spicy kimchi. The contestants dug in, laughing and joking as they chewed.

"This isn't bad at all," Joshua said confidently, wiping his mouth with a napkin.

The next rounds escalated quickly. Dishes infused with increasingly potent chili peppers made their way to the table. Sweat began to bead on Joshua's forehead as he swallowed a spoonful of spicy soup that seemed to light his entire throat on fire. DK dramatically fanned his mouth, while Woozi's usual deadpan expression cracked into a grimace.

"Shua-hyung, how are you holding up?" Mingyu asked between bites, his voice tight as he guzzled water.

Joshua forced a smile, his lips tingling. "I'm good," he said, though his stomach churned ominously.

By the final round, they were presented with a bowl of noodles drenched in a fiery red sauce known for its extreme heat. The host grinned mischievously. "Only true spice warriors can handle this!"

Joshua hesitated for a split second before picking up his chopsticks. Cameras flashed, capturing his determined expression as he took a bite. His mouth instantly burned, tears springing to his eyes as the overwhelming heat hit him like a wave.

"Are you okay, Joshua-ssi?" the host teased, noticing his flushed face and labored breathing.

Joshua managed a shaky thumbs-up. "Just... really spicy!" he gasped, earning laughter from the crew and members watching on the sidelines.

The competition ended with applause and laughter, but Joshua could barely focus. His stomach felt like a storm was brewing, sharp pangs twisting in his gut. Still, he plastered on a smile, not wanting to ruin the fun atmosphere.

Later that evening, as the group returned to their dorm, Joshua's discomfort worsened. He quietly slipped away to his room, hoping some rest would ease the pain.

"Shua, you're not joining us for dinner?" Jeonghan called after him.

"Not hungry," Joshua replied, his voice tight.

Once inside his room, Joshua doubled over, clutching his stomach. The pain was sharper now, radiating through his abdomen in waves. He broke into a cold sweat, his breaths coming shallow and fast.

Over the next few days, Joshua's condition showed no signs of improvement. He felt nauseous constantly, and even small sips of water left his stomach churning. The once lively and energetic lead vocalist became unusually quiet, retreating to his room whenever he wasn't needed for practice or schedules.

"Joshua-hyung, are you okay?" Seungkwan asked one morning, his tone laced with concern as he noticed Joshua picking at his breakfast.

Joshua forced a weak smile. "I'm fine. Just tired."