Zerobaseone Sickfics [REQUESTS CLOSED]

《 Ricky: Sore Throat》

Written on: Saturday, 07.12.2024

Words: 898
*********************************************
The crowd's deafening cheers echoed through the arena as Zerobaseone finished their final performance of the night. The members waved enthusiastically to their fans, sweat dripping from their brows, before retreating backstage. Despite their exhaustion, they were in high spirits, their energy boosted by the overwhelming support from their fans.

"Great job today, everyone!" Hanbin encouraged as they huddled for a quick group cheer.
"Let’s go back to the hotel and rest up." Jiwoong said, his voice tinged with fatigue but filled with warmth. The group nodded and piled into their van, chatting about the concert's highlights on their way to the hotel.

Upon arrival, they split into pairs and headed to their respective rooms. Ricky shared a room with Gyuvin, who plopped onto his bed without a second thought. "Finally, some peace and quiet." Gyuvin sighed. He glanced over to see Ricky rummaging through his bag.

"Ricky, what are you doing?" Gyuvin asked, his curiosity piqued. Ricky pulled out a small jar and started applying a cooling gel to his forehead. "I’ve had this dull headache since the encore. It’s nothing serious." Ricky explained, brushing off Gyuvin’s concerned look."Did you tell Hanbin hyung or hyunwoo hyung?" Gyuvin asked, sitting up. "It’s not that bad. This gel usually helps. Don’t worry about it." Ricky reassured him with a small smile before climbing into bed. Despite Ricky’s words, Gyuvin couldn’t help but worry as he watched his roommate drift off to sleep

The next morning, the hotel was abuzz as the members prepared for another packed schedule. Ricky woke up feeling slightly better, though the headache lingered. After freshening up, he poured himself a glass of water, eager to hydrate. But as he swallowed, a sharp pain shot through his throat, causing him to cough.

"Ah… what’s this?" Ricky muttered, startled by the hoarseness in his voice. He cleared his throat, but the discomfort remained. Gyuvin, already dressed, turned toward him. "Ricky? Are you okay? Your voice…" Gyuvin asked him.

"I think my throat’s sore." Ricky admitted, his voice was raspy. Gyuvin’s eyes widened in worry. "You need to tell hyunwoo hyung right now." He suggested, concern evident in voice.
Reluctantly, Ricky nodded. Moments later, Gyuvin was explaining the situation to Hyunwoo, their manager who immediately took charge. "Hyunwoo hyung, I think Ricky has a sore throat." Gyuvin said, his eyes fixed on ricky.

"Let’s not take any risks. I'll book an appointment with a clinic. Ricky, get ready. I'll take you there myself" Hyunwoo said firmly.
Ricky hesitated. "Is this really necessary? I can just rest." He asked him. Hyunwoo’s expression softened. "It’s better to be safe, Ricky. Let’s make sure it’s nothing serious." Hyunwoo assured him, and kept a hand on his shoulder.

The clinic was a cozy, well-lit space that smelled faintly of antiseptic. Ricky sat nervously in the waiting room, his foot tapping against the tiled floor.

"Relax, Ricky. It's probably just a minor sore throat. The doctor will help." Hyunwoo said, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.
Ricky nodded, though his nerves didn’t ease. When the doctor called his name, Hyunwoo accompanied him into the consultation room.

After a brief examination, the doctor smiled reassuringly. "It’s a mild sore throat, likely from overuse during the concert and the change in weather. I’ll prescribe amoxicillin. Take it once a day after dinner, and avoid singing for a few days to let your vocal cords heal." He said, handing him a small packet of amoxicillin.

Ricky’s heart sank. "Avoid singing? But we have another concert in a couple of days." He told doctor. He had to present for the concert.
The doctor shook his head gently. "Continuing to sing could cause further damage. Rest is crucial if you want to recover fully." The doctor replied.
Hyunwoo patted Ricky’s shoulder. "Don’t worry about the concert. Your health comes first. We’ll manage." He said, his voice softened.

When they returned to the hotel, the other members were lounging in the common area. They immediately noticed Ricky’s subdued demeanor. "What’s wrong?" Taerae asked, concern etched on his face.

Ricky sighed and explained the situation, his hoarse voice drawing sympathetic looks from everyone. " Doctor said I have to aviod singing for few days." Ricky said, coughing a little as he finished his sentence."You’re not singing at the next few concerts," Jiwoong said firmly."But—" Ricky was interrupted by hao."No buts, ricky. Your health is more important. We can cover your parts." Hao interrupted. Touched by their words, Ricky nodded. "Thanks, guys. I’ll make sure to rest." Ricky said, his voice filled with gratitude.

For the next few days, Ricky followed the doctor’s orders diligently. The other members stepped up to cover his parts during rehearsals and concerts, ensuring the performances went smoothly. "How’s your throat?" Gyuvin asked one evening as they sat in their room. "Much better." Ricky replied, his voice nearly back to normal. A few days later, Ricky rejoined the rehearsals. The members cheered as he sang effortlessly effortlessly, his voice strong and clear once more.
"Welcome back, Ricky hyung!" Yujin exclaimed, pulling him into a playful hug. Ricky laughed. "Thanks, guys. I couldn’t have done it without your support."

As they prepared for their next concert, the group’s bond felt stronger than ever, a reminder that they were more than just a team—they were family.