The morning sun filtered softly through the trees as you and Jungwon started the hike. The air was fresh, filled with the earthy scent of pine and damp soil, and birds echoed faintly above. Everything felt perfect: snacks, water, light jackets. Jungwon grinned, teasing you about how organized you were.

At first, the climb was easy. The trail twisted upward, but every step felt almost effortless as you listened to Jungwon’s light chatter. He pointed out small details: a rock shaped like a face, a bird darting between branches. His warmth made the path feel shorter than it really was.

But after a while, a tightness crept into your chest. You tried to ignore it, telling yourself to slow down, but the air felt thinner, each breath harder to pull in. Panic hit: You had forgotten your inhaler.

Jungwon stopped abruptly, worry flashing across his face. "Are you okay?" His voice was sharp now, eyes scanning you anxiously.

You tried to nod, but your shallow breaths betrayed you. He dropped his backpack and moved closer, kneeling beside you, hand hovering near yours.

"Talk to me," he urged, voice low but tense. "What’s happening?"