Baek Kang Hyuk - Blog Posts

jae-won will be remembered 🙏

my crack show for the first quarter of 2025. Will any other show top it? I don't know, but this is just fucking gold. I mean Han Yu Rin??

😂😂 Baek Kang Hyuk is such a bitch

You little brat, get back here!

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

4.4: When Dr. Mom Noticed

It was a quiet afternoon in the trauma ward—well, as quiet as it could get. Hyejoo had just finished reviewing a patient chart and stepped into the nurses’ station to grab a cup of coffee when she noticed something curious on the whiteboard.

There it was again. The doodle.

Stick-figure Dr. Baek: perpetually scowling, arms crossed. Stick-figure Dr. Song: beaming, a stethoscope drawn around her neck. Above them, in bold, slightly messy handwriting:

“TRAUMA MOM & DAD”

She blinked.

Jangmi, standing nearby, tried to cover it quickly with her clipboard—but it was too late.

Hyejoo tilted her head, suppressing a smirk. “Trauma… mom and dad?”

Jaewon, unfortunately passing by with coffee, nearly choked on his drink.

“Ah. That… might be a thing,” he admitted.

Hyejoo turned toward Jangmi with a raised brow. “A thing?”

Jangmi sighed, already grinning. “You and Dr. Baek. You’re like the parental figures of the trauma team. He’s all tough love and intimidation. You’re the calm and comforting balance.”

Hyejoo stared for a beat. Then, unexpectedly, she let out a soft laugh.

“I kind of like that,” she said, leaning forward to get a better look at the doodle. “Though I should be offended. My hair is way better than this.”

Jangmi looked relieved. “So you’re not mad?”

“Mad? Jangmi, I’ve been called worse,” Hyejoo said, picking up a marker. With a few quick strokes, she added earrings to her stick figure and a little heart between her and Kanghyuk’s doodles.

Jaewon blinked. “Wait, is that… a heart?”

Hyejoo just winked.

Later that day, Kanghyuk walked past the whiteboard again. His eyes narrowed at the heart. “Who drew this?”

Jangmi looked entirely too pleased with herself. “Ask your wife.”

Kanghyuk opened his mouth to protest—but then Hyejoo stepped into the hallway, coffee in hand, casually brushing past him.

“What? It’s accurate,” she said over her shoulder. “I even gave you hair this time.”

Kanghyuk stood there, bewildered.

And maybe just a little flustered.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

4.3: When Dr. Dad Noticed

It started with strange looks.

Not bad ones—just the kind that lingered a little too long. A few smirks exchanged between residents when he walked by. Some whispering that would immediately halt the moment he turned around.

Kanghyuk had brushed it off at first. Probably gossip about some intern or the new protocol changes. The usual hospital noise.

Until one afternoon, as he was reviewing post-op notes, he overheard Jangmi and Jaewon chatting outside the staff lounge.

“Mom and Dad are fighting again,” Jaewon whispered dramatically.

“No, this is more like playful bickering. If they were actually fighting, Dr. Song would’ve snatched his chart and told him to sit in a corner,” Jangmi replied, stifling a laugh.

Kanghyuk’s eyes narrowed.

He stepped out casually, voice calm. “Who’s mom and dad?”

The two of them froze. Jaewon straightened like he’d been caught stealing supplies.

Jangmi cleared her throat. “Uh… just… like a trauma department nickname. You know. Uh… it’s just a thing.”

Kanghyuk raised a brow. “Right. And I’m assuming I’m ‘dad’?”

Jangmi nodded slowly, biting her lip to keep from laughing. “And Dr. Song’s mom. It’s a… vibe.”

Kanghyuk blinked. “A vibe.”

“Yeah. You’re the scary, protective one who yells a lot, and she’s the calm, sweet one who fixes everything. Balance.”

Jaewon jumped in, trying to soften the blow. “But in, like, a power couple way.”

“I’m going back to work,” Kanghyuk muttered, turning away, but not fast enough to hide the faintest hint of red creeping up his neck.

Later that day, he passed by the nurses’ station and caught sight of a doodle someone had left on the whiteboard: a stick figure version of him with angry scribbles for eyebrows, standing beside a smiling one labeled “Dr. Song.” Above them? “TRUAMA MOM & DAD.”

He stared at it for a beat.

Then, with a deadpan expression, he erased it with the back of his hand.

“Grow up,” he muttered under his breath—but the corner of his lips betrayed the tiniest twitch.

Back in the hallway, Jangmi whispered to Jaewon, “He didn’t deny it.”

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

4.2: Code Blue – Parental Unit

Later that week, the trauma department was in chaos. A sudden multi-vehicle collision had brought in a wave of patients, and the team was moving like clockwork under pressure. Shouts echoed across the ER, machines beeped in warning tones, and gurneys rolled in one after another.

In the middle of it all, Dr. Baek Kanghyuk barked orders like a general on the battlefield.

“Get vitals on Bed 6 now!” “Where’s the portable X-ray? I asked five minutes ago!” “Who let this patient sit without oxygen? Are we running a hospital or a convenience store?”

The atmosphere was tense. A young intern flinched at his tone and nearly dropped the chart in her hands.

Then, like clockwork, Dr. Song Hyejoo appeared at his side.

Without saying a word, she walked up behind him and handed him a fresh cup of coffee, still hot. Her other hand gently reached up to adjust the collar of his scrub top, which had been askew from the rush. Kanghyuk barely paused, taking the coffee with a short grunt of thanks, his eyes still scanning the incoming stretchers.

But the effect was instant.

His next order came out just a bit more calmly. His shoulders relaxed—just barely, but noticeably. And when he turned to check on the intern he’d startled, his voice was lower, softer. “You okay?” he asked.

The intern nodded quickly, almost too stunned to speak. Hyejoo gave her a reassuring pat on the arm before turning back to join another triage.

In the breakroom, a few of the nurses and residents peeked through the glass window, having witnessed the whole interaction.

“Did… she just fix his collar and give him coffee mid-chaos?” “She really said: chill, honey, you’re scaring the children.” “I swear she’s the only one who can calm him down without getting yelled at.” “Yeah, well, when mom’s in the room, dad behaves.”

Jangmi, sipping from her water bottle, raised an eyebrow. “Give it a few more weeks. They’ll be holding hands over a shared chart.”

Jaewon grinned. “Not if Dr. Baek combusts first trying to flirt without looking like he’s flirting.”

Gyeongwon, not even looking up from his tablet, muttered dryly, “Too late. Man’s already down bad.”

The group erupted into hushed giggles before scattering back to work—each secretly hoping for the next “mom and dad” moment to unfold.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

4.1: The Mom & Dad of the Trauma Center

It had become a running joke among the hospital staff: Dr. Baek was the intimidating, no-nonsense father of the trauma department—stern, sharp, and always two seconds away from biting someone’s head off. Meanwhile, Dr. Song had quickly gained a reputation as the gentle but firm mother—soothing patients with a calm smile and handling chaos with grace.

“They’re like the parents of this place,” a nurse whispered to a colleague in the staff lounge, sipping her coffee. “He terrifies everyone. She makes them feel safe. It’s weirdly balanced.”

“Right? It’s like good cop, bad cop—but with scalpels.”

That day, the theory was confirmed.

In the middle of a hectic shift, the department witnessed one of Dr. Baek’s infamous storms brewing. He was by the nurse’s station, phone pressed to his ear, voice clipped and furious.

“What do you mean you didn’t receive the CT report? We sent it over thirty minutes ago—this delay could’ve killed the patient!” Dr. Baek Kanghyuk’s voice echoed through the hallway. Staff passing by winced instinctively, ducking their heads as if trying to avoid the incoming storm.

“Are you messing with me right now, you little—” he growled into the phone, his hand tightening around it like he might crush the device altogether.

Before anyone could intervene, a familiar figure stepped into the scene. Dr. Song Hyejoo, ever calm, ever composed, walked straight to him without hesitation.

With one smooth motion, she reached up and gently snatched the phone from his hand. Her other hand landed lightly on his shoulder, grounding him. The entire corridor seemed to hold its breath.

“Hello,” she said into the phone, her voice warm but edged with steel. “This is Dr. Song. I just want to clarify that we did, in fact, send the report. It’s been confirmed on our end.”

A short pause. Then, still smiling, she added, “I hope this doesn’t happen again. Someone’s life could’ve been in danger. Do we have an understanding here?”

Another beat passed before she finished, voice even and final:

“Next time, we won’t let it slide anymore.”

Her tone didn’t rise once—but somehow, it sent a chill down every spine in the room.

Even Kanghyuk blinked, caught off guard by the smooth takeover. Hyejoo handed the phone back to the nurse and turned to him with a sigh and a teasing glint in her eyes.

“Aigoo… you and your temper.”

Kanghyuk huffed, arms crossed. “You were too nice to them. Should’ve thrown in a curse or two.”

She laughed, “Come on, let’s get you a cold drink before you yell the ceiling off.”

From a distance, a pair of young interns peeked around the corner.

“Did… did she just tame Dr. Baek mid-tantrum?” one whispered.

“Dude, she mom-voiced him. That was wild.”

“I’m telling you,” a nurse muttered nearby with a knowing smirk, “they’re like our trauma department parents.”

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

3.2: White Coats & Warm Blankets

Dr. Baek Kanghyuk was used to exhaustion. Long shifts, grueling surgeries, running on nothing but caffeine and willpower—it was all part of the job.

But that didn’t mean he liked seeing it on someone else.

When he entered the doctors’ lounge, planning to review some files, he stopped in his tracks.

Tucked in the farthest corner of the room, curled up in one of the chairs, was Dr. Song Hye Joo. Asleep.

Her white coat was draped over her like a makeshift blanket, her head tilted slightly to the side, lips parted just a little. She must’ve crashed the moment she sat down.

Kanghyuk frowned slightly. The last time he saw her, she had just finished assisting in a grueling surgery that lasted nearly ten hours. And knowing her, she probably hadn’t taken a real break since.

He sighed, stepping closer.

She looked… small like this. Vulnerable. Completely different from her usual composed self.

He remembered how she used to be in med school—stubborn as ever, always pushing herself past her limits. She’d skip meals, stay up all night studying, and brush off any concern like it was nothing. And somehow, he’d always end up playing the role of her unofficial personal doctor—annoyingly persistent, always reminding her to eat on time or refusing to tutor her when he sees her tired sleepy eyes.

Watching her now, he couldn’t help but think, She hasn’t changed one bit.

And then another thought crept in—quieter, heavier. So who’s been looking after her all these years?

Kanghyuk hesitated for a moment, then carefully picked up a proper blanket from the supply cabinet. Without a word, he draped it over her, making sure it covered her properly.

She stirred slightly, her brows furrowing, but she didn’t wake up. Instead, she shifted, settling deeper into the chair.

Kanghyuk stared for a moment longer, then shook his head at himself. This isn’t a big deal. It’s basic consideration. Anyone would do the same.

Still, as he turned to leave, he found himself moving a little more quietly than usual.

What he didn’t notice, however, was the small, drowsy smile that appeared on Hye Joo’s lips.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

3.1: A Prescription for Lunch

The trauma department had finally settled into a lull after the storm of back-to-back emergencies. Dr. Song Hyejoo sat at her desk, flipping through patient charts, her brows knitted in quiet concentration. Her coffee had gone cold. Her stomach had long since forgotten what lunch tasted like.

Without a word, Dr. Baek Kanghyuk appeared beside her and placed a lunch box on her desk with a soft thud. Not the cafeteria kind—this was from the nicer spot two blocks away, the one with actual flavor.

She blinked up at him, surprised. “What’s this?”

Kanghyuk didn’t look at her, busying himself with straightening a nearby chart. “Lunch,” he said flatly. “Obviously.”

She chuckled, then opened it slowly, eyes lighting up at the sight. “You even got my favorite side dishes?”

He finally turned to face her, arms crossed. “Who’s gonna take care of the patients if you don’t take care of yourself?”

Hyejoo looked at him for a long moment, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “Well… I have you around bringing me food like this.”

Kanghyuk scoffed and rolled his eyes, clearly flustered. “Don’t expect I’ll do this every day.”

Behind them, Jangmi and Jaewon stood at the nurses’ station, watching the exchange like it was their favorite drama.

“He says that,” Jangmi whispered, “but he always worries about Dr. Song.”

“Seriously,” Jaewon added with a knowing smirk. “Last week he lectured me for five minutes when I forgot to remind her to take a break.”

Gyeongwon, leaning against the counter with his arms crossed, didn’t even look up from his tablet. “He’s a hopeless case.”

Jangmi smirked. “A hopeless case in love.”

At that moment, Kanghyuk glanced over and saw the three of them watching. Jaewon quickly looked away, pretending to read something. Jangmi gave him a sly wave. Gyeongwon raised his coffee like a toast, not missing a beat.

Kanghyuk sighed. “Get back to work, all of you.”

But even as he turned away, there was the faintest hint of a smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

2.2 Late Night Consultations - Catching Up

It was late—well past the usual shift hours—and the trauma department had finally gone quiet. Most of the lights were dimmed, the hum of machines replaced by the occasional rustle of paper and the distant beep of a monitor down the hall.

In one of the doctor’s offices, Dr. Song Hyejoo was crouched beneath her desk, sleeves rolled up as she tried to organize a pile of tangled files and storage boxes. A pen was tucked behind her ear, and a small sigh escaped her lips.

Leaning lazily against her desk, arms crossed and expression far too amused, stood Dr. Baek Kanghyuk, watching the scene unfold like it was prime-time entertainment.

“Are you just gonna stand there or are you gonna help me?” Hyejoo asked without looking up, her voice tinged with faux annoyance.

“Hmm…” Kanghyuk tilted his head thoughtfully, a small smirk playing on his lips. “I think I prefer watching you struggle.”

Hyejoo rolled her eyes with an exaggerated groan. “You’re useless.”

He didn’t answer—but when she reached further back under the desk, Kanghyuk subtly shifted. One hand moved to cover the sharp corner of the desk, shielding her head from bumping into it. With his other hand, he quietly slid her half-full coffee mug away from the edge, placing it on a nearby counter to avoid any potential disaster.

Hyejoo didn’t notice immediately, too focused on straightening a stack of folders—but when she sat up slightly and felt his hand lightly press against the desk’s edge, keeping her from hitting it, she paused.

She glanced up at him, upside down from her position, raising an eyebrow. “I thought you said you were just watching.”

“I am,” he said casually, not moving. “Just… supervising safely.”

Hyejoo snorted, shaking her head as she returned to her task. “Yeah, yeah. Keep telling yourself that.”

Kanghyuk stayed put, still shielding the desk edge like it was nothing. But from the way he lingered, his eyes quietly watching over her, it was clear—he wasn’t just watching.

He was looking out for her.

Like always.

Hyejoo finally sat back in her chair, legs stretched slightly as she sorted through the stack of patient files on her desk. She didn’t look up when Kanghyuk spoke, but the sound of his voice still made her pause for just a second.

“So… what have you been up to these past few years?” he asked, casually, but there was something quieter underneath—curiosity laced with something unsaid.

Hyejoo glanced up at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Finally asking, huh?”

Kanghyuk shrugged, leaning more comfortably against the desk, arms crossed. “Just catching up with my old student.”

That made her laugh, low and amused. “Wow, pulling the tutor card already?”

“Well, technically, you asked me for help.”

“And technically, I improved your handwriting,” she quipped, raising an eyebrow as she flipped a page.

He rolled his eyes. “You scribbled hearts on my notes.”

“They were diagrams of the human heart,” she grinned, clearly enjoying herself.

He gave a soft scoff, but the corner of his mouth lifted into a smile. “Sure, Song. Keep telling yourself that.”

There was a short pause between them—comfortable, familiar.

Then Hyejoo, still looking down at the papers in her hand, asked softly, “Did you ever think we’d run into each other again?”

Kanghyuk didn’t answer immediately. He looked at her, really looked this time—how she had changed and yet somehow stayed the same.

“…Sometimes,” he said finally. “Didn’t think it’d be like this, though.”

She smiled to herself, then gently pushed a stack of folders aside. Hyejoo leaned back in her chair, arms folded loosely as she stared at the ceiling, her expression unreadable.

“Hm… my life,” she started, voice quiet. “Hasn’t really been interesting.”

Kanghyuk tilted his head, then leaned in slightly, resting one hand on the edge of her desk. He didn’t say anything—just looked at her with that patient, steady gaze of his. The kind that said go on, I’m listening.

She caught it and gave him a soft sigh, lips curling upward faintly. “Let’s see… after transferring to Seoul, as much as my parents were against it, I was able to finish my degree.”

Kanghyuk nodded slowly. He remembered her mentioning her parents back in med school—just bits and pieces, enough to know their expectations weighed heavy on her shoulders.

“I also opened a small clinic in Namhae,” she continued. “It did not last long though, but the time I spent there, the quiet, the mountains, the sea breeze, and especially the townspeople who treated me like family— those were some of the happiest moments in my life.”

Kang-hyuk smiled softly, already imagining what her life had been like.

“Then I got married,” she added, almost casually.

“Oh.” The word slipped out of Kanghyuk before he could catch it. It wasn’t loud. But it sounded sharp in the quiet of the office. Like he’d been slapped by a wave he didn’t see coming.

Then, with a light shrug, she said, “And then we got a divorce.”

“…Oh?” Kanghyuk blinked, his voice a little higher this time, unsure if he should feel relieved or more concerned.

“That was my parents’ condition,” she said, her tone turning more matter-of-fact. “I finish my degree, and then I marry the family they chose.”

Kanghyuk’s brows furrowed slightly.

“It didn’t work out though,” she continued. “My ex-husband’s parents didn’t like the idea of me working—especially not as a doctor, always on call, barely home. They probably expected me to eventually quit my job. They wanted someone who’d support him.”

She gave a dry laugh. “And well… I was always busy.”

Kanghyuk finally spoke, his voice quieter but warm. “Busy saving lives.”

That made her pause.

She glanced at him, and for a split second, the corners of her mouth twitched. It wasn’t a full smile, not yet—but there was something soft in her eyes.

“Yeah,” she said, almost a whisper. “I guess I was.”

They sat in comfortable silence for a few moments. The kind that didn’t feel heavy, just… familiar.

Then, Hyejoo leaned forward, resting her arms on the desk. “Well? How about you? Aside from being an internet sensation—as the Holy Spirit of this hospital, of course.” she teased, grinning playfully.

Kanghyuk scoffed. “What Holy Spirit? What kind of articles have you been reading, Song?”

She shrugged, her smile not fading. “Hey, I shared my story. Your turn.”

He sighed, and after a moment, leaned forward too, just slightly. “University got boring without someone breathing down my neck, demanding tutoring sessions every other day.”

Under the desk, she kicked his leg lightly with her foot. He chuckled.

“After I graduated… I guess I’ve been everywhere,” he said.

Hyejoo blinked slowly, keeping her gaze on him, encouraging him to go on.

“I did a lot of volunteer work. Mostly in rural areas—places where there weren’t enough doctors. Eventually, I became a combat medic, joined medical teams overseas. After a while, I got contacted to head the Trauma Team here. It was rough in the beginning, but now the Trauma Center’s back on its feet. I’m planning to rebuild it properly. Staff it with people who actually care about their patients. Who know what it means to treat emergencies like they matter.”

As she listened, a small smile began forming on Hyejoo’s lips. He hasn’t changed one bit, she thought.

She had known this version of Baek Kanghyuk from the start—ever since med school. The one people called cold, sharp-tongued, a little rude, and always too serious. The one who worked part-time jobs in between classes, who never seemed to sleep, and who still managed to top every exam.

She remembered how he challenged professors in class, especially when they were wrong—or worse, when they treated patient charts like paperwork instead of lives.

And she knew, even back then, that Baek Kanghyuk wasn’t just the arrogant jerk people claimed he was.

He had a goal. A mission. Saving lives was always at the center of it all.

When she heard his name again after all those years, she hadn’t been surprised. She was proud. Because he became exactly the kind of doctor she always believed he would be.

And now, hearing him talk about his journey… something in her felt unexpectedly calm. Settled.

She had wondered about him too, after all this time.

And sitting here now, she realized—she was genuinely happy for him.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

2.1 Diagnosis - Obvious

It was only her first day, yet Dr. Song Hyejoo was already making waves in the trauma department. She had settled into her role quickly, impressing the staff with her calm demeanor and expert decision-making. But for some reason, Dr. Baek Kanghyuk—who, normally, wouldn’t spare much attention to anyone new—found himself keeping an eye on her. Maybe it was the way she commanded the room, or maybe it was that smile of hers. He couldn’t decide.

For whatever reason, it felt like it had been ages since he’d worked alongside someone he hadn’t completely sized up within a day. But there was something about Hyejoo—something that kept him on edge. So, when the opportunity arose to give her a tour of the department, Kanghyuk took it, despite it being someone else’s job. He told himself it was simply to familiarize her with the layout and the team. But deep down, he knew it was more than that.

Jangmi, however, wasn’t buying it.

The moment Kanghyuk insisted on tagging along for the tour, her suspicion kicked in. He never did that. In fact, he usually avoided those kinds of things—said he was too busy, or that orientation was “someone else’s problem.” But that morning, when she mentioned giving the new trauma doctor a quick walkthrough of the facilities, he’d said, “I’ll come too,” in a tone too casual to be casual.

She remembered blinking at him in surprise. “You sure? You hate tours.”

He just grunted, “It’s fine,” and grabbed his tablet.

That was when it clicked. Jangmi had noticed something off the moment Dr. Song Hyejoo stepped into the department and locked eyes with Kanghyuk. There’d been a pause—brief, but telling. She also recalled how, later that day, Jaewon had asked Kanghyuk if he knew her, and Kanghyuk replied with a simple, “We’ve crossed paths before. Now get back to work.” before promptly shutting down the conversation.

Crossed paths. Yeah, right.

As they walked through the bustling trauma ward, Jangmi led the way, briefing Hyejoo on the various rooms, patient conditions, and the names of the doctors they’d be working with. Kanghyuk walked a few steps behind them, his gaze occasionally drifting to Hyejoo.

She was speaking with Jangmi, listening attentively, nodding in all the right places. But her posture, that confident way she moved, reminded him so much of their time in university. The way she’d always been so certain of herself. The way she’d argue with him over every little thing, convinced that her opinions were always better—and well, most of the time, they were.

He couldn’t help but stare. The memories flooded back like a tidal wave: late-night study sessions in the library, competitive glances across exam papers, bantering over dinner, her fiery passion to save lives, her constant push to be better, to prove herself.

He snapped back to the present when Hyejoo suddenly turned toward him with that signature smile—half teasing, half knowing.

“You know, you’re pretty famous for having a nasty temper,” she said, her voice light with amusement, clearly enjoying the rare chance to poke at him.

Kanghyuk blinked, his thoughts still lingering on the past. For a moment, his mind went blank, as if she had thrown him off guard, just like she always used to. He had his fair share of colorful reactions, but he didn’t expect her to bring it up so easily.

He quickly recovered, clearing his throat. “Looked me up already?” he asked, voice dry but with a subtle edge of humor.

Hyejoo raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. “Still full of yourself, I see.”

Kanghyuk flashed her a teasing smile. “Just admit that you’re curious about me.”

She shrugged casually. “As someone transferring to a new hospital, I just did my research.”

Then she leaned in slightly, eyes gleaming. “Why? Were you hoping I was curious about you?”

Kanghyuk scoffed, trying to mask the way he almost faltered. “Nonsense,” was all he could manage.

Hyejoo smiled in triumph. “Cat got your tongue?”

It was maddening, the way she could still get under his skin so effortlessly. Kanghyuk was suddenly reminded of those late nights in university—their back-and-forths across study tables, her relentless teasing, the way she never let him win an argument without a fight.

Back then, he could keep up. Back then, he always had a retort ready.

Now? Now she had the upper hand, and she clearly knew it.

“I can already tell you’re gonna be a pain in the neck,” he muttered, shaking his head.

Hyejoo smirked. “Try to watch your blood pressure then.”

Kanghyuk let out a short laugh, low and grudging. He turned his face away, but he couldn’t hide the smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

From a few steps ahead, Jangmi pretended to be preoccupied with her tablet, but her eyes flicked back to them briefly—just in time to catch the moment.

Maybe he should be watching his heart pressure instead, she thought, fighting back a grin.

Jangmi slowed her pace, clearly eavesdropping. She narrowed her eyes, not at the words—but the tone.

Something was different.

Kanghyuk didn’t sound sharp. He wasn’t barking orders or offering curt replies like he usually did. No, his voice was softer—just a little—but enough for someone like Jangmi to notice.

There was a gentleness in the way he spoke to Hyejoo, like he was trying not to scare her off. Or maybe, like he didn’t want the conversation to end.

Her lips slowly curled into a mischievous grin.

“Oh, this is good,” she murmured under her breath. “Wait till I tell Jaewon and Gyeong-Won. They’re gonna lose it.”

And with that, she turned back down the hallway, already crafting the perfect group chat message in her head.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

Flashback 3: Check His Vitals— She's Back

The trauma center was unusually quiet for a Monday morning. The soft hum of monitors and the distant echo of footsteps filled the air as Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk reviewed the incoming roster on his tablet, a steaming cup of coffee in hand.

“New attending starts today,” A nurse said, walking past him with a clipboard. “Transferred from different hospitals. Impressive credentials. Dr. Hong? Or Song?… something.”

“Doctor what?” Kang Hyuk asked absently, eyes still glued to the screen.

“Didn’t catch the full name. But apparently, a bit of a hotshot.”

Kang Hyuk barely reacted. “We’ll see.”

He wasn’t one to be easily impressed—especially by doctors who arrived with reputations louder than their resumes. Trauma work, after all, didn’t care much for flair. It was about instincts, grit, and the ability to make life-or-death decisions in seconds. He sipped his coffee, unconcerned.

Until she walked in.

The doors swung open and in came a woman dressed in a tailored white coat, hair swept effortlessly into a low ponytail, stride confident and poised. Her presence turned heads—not because she was flashy, but because she exuded the kind of charisma you didn’t see often in hospital hallways. There was a self-assured glint in her eyes and a knowing curve to her smile.

Kang Hyuk looked up instinctively.

And then froze.

It couldn’t be.

But it was.

“Dr. Song Hyejoo,” the chief nurse announced with a bright smile. “Welcome to the trauma center.”

Song Hyejoo.

Med school rival. Debate partner. Library nemesis. The one who always raised her hand a second faster, who smirked every time she beat him by half a point on an exam. They’d spent years neck-and-neck at the top of their class, turning academic pressure into a personal game neither of them would ever admit they enjoyed.

But it wasn’t just rivalry. There were late-night study sessions that blurred into dawn, with half-empty coffee cups between them and scribbled notes exchanged without a word. Arguments that started over case studies but turned into laughter. Quiet moments in the library when they’d both reach for the same textbook and pretend not to notice their hands brushing. And that one rainy afternoon when she dozed off mid-study and he let her, watching the rise and fall of her breath like it was the most natural thing in the world.

And then—she was gone.

Transferred to another university in Seoul almost overnight. No warning, no explanation. Just a brief goodbye and a final glance that said everything they couldn’t.

Now, years later, she appeared out of nowhere.

It happened just a few weeks ago. The trauma bay had been chaos—sirens blaring, stretchers rolling in, staff scrambling to keep up with the influx. And in the middle of it all, was her.

Confident. Unshaken. Sharp.

He remembered waiting that day—telling himself it wasn’t a big deal. She said she’d drop by to check on her patient. Just a quick follow-up, nothing more. But she never came.

Days passed. Then weeks. And he had almost convinced himself to forget. To let it go. Maybe their meeting was only meant to be brief—two former classmates, intersecting for a moment before moving on again, just like before.

Bu then she came back.

And now, here she was.

She hadn’t changed much—still infuriatingly composed, still walking like she owned every hallway she stepped into. That same air of quiet brilliance wrapped around her like armor. And that smile—it was the same one that had always made their rivalry feel less like a battle, and more like a game he secretly enjoyed playing.

Hyejoo turned toward him with that same teasing glint in her eyes.

“Hey there, bet you weren’t expecting me,” she said, offering her hand.

He stood a beat too long before shaking it, the ghost of their last encounter flickering in the air between them. “You still have that dramatic entrance thing going on, huh?”

She grinned. “And you’re still terrible at hiding when you’re flustered.”

“I’m not flustered,” he said, voice betraying the slight stammer of surprise. “Just… surprised they let you in here without a personality screening.”

She laughed. “Please. I passed with flying colors. Charm gets you far in this world, Baek.”

“Too bad charm doesn’t stop bleeding.”

“No, but skill does. And lucky for you, I’ve got both.”

Jaewon and Jangmi exchanged wide-eyed glances behind them.

“Old rivals?” Jaewon whispered.

“Or exes,” Jangmi whispered back.

Kang Hyuk cleared his throat and straightened his coat. “Let’s see if you can still keep up in the trauma bay, Dr. Song.”

She stepped closer, close enough that he caught the faint scent of her perfume—same as before. “Try not to fall behind, Dr. Baek. I wouldn’t want to have to save your patient and your pride.”

He arched a brow. “Confidence bordering on arrogance. Some things never change.”

“And yet, here you are, still trying to impress me.”

That made him pause—just a fraction—before covering it with a low chuckle. “You wish.”

“Maybe I do,” she said with a wink, breezing past him and heading toward the board.

He blinked, watching her retreat. Okay. She still had the upper hand.

“Okay what was that?” Jangmi asked.

“History,” Jaewon said. “Definitely history.”

Kang Hyuk exhaled slowly and turned back to his chart. It was going to be a long shift.

But for the first time in a while, he didn’t mind.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

Flashback 2: Reunion in the Trauma Bay

The trauma center was buzzing, as usual. Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk stood at the head of the ER, glancing through scans on the monitor while rattling off orders to the nurses. It was just another hectic day—or so he thought.

“Dr. Baek!” Jaewon called out, a phone in hand and urgency written all over his face. “We’ve got a call from Amsan Medical. They’re transferring a trauma patient here. Multiple internal injuries—urgent case.”

Kang Hyuk nodded, already preparing. “Why transfer it here?”

“They said all their ORs are occupied,” Jaewon replied. “But a trauma surgeon is already with the patient and will be performing the surgery here.”

Kang Hyuk frowned slightly. It was rare, but not unheard of. “Fine. Prep Operating Room 2. I’ll assist if needed.”

Before he could even finish the sentence, the ER doors burst open.

A stretcher came barreling through, flanked by a medical team in Amsan uniforms. Atop the gurney, a woman in a surgical gown was straddling the patient, performing CPR with practiced precision. Her eyes were laser-focused, her movements sharp and unhesitating.

Kang Hyuk froze.

There was something oddly familiar about her—even beneath the mask, even in this chaos. That gaze. That intensity. That fire he remembered so vividly.

The woman dismounted as the stretcher came to a stop. Breathing heavily, she pulled down her mask.

“I’m Dr. Song Hye Joo from Amsan Medical Hospital,” she said clearly. “We called earlier to request immediate use of your operating room. We ask for your cooperation.”

Song Hye Joo.

Of course, he knew that name.

That face.

That voice.

She turned—and her eyes met his.

A pause.

Recognition flickered in both their eyes. A beat of stillness amid the rush.

Hyejoo blinked once, her breath still catching from the ride in. Kang Hyuk straightened instinctively, something twisting in his chest.

But there was no time.

“The patient has a ruptured spleen, probable pelvic fracture, and signs of hypovolemic shock,” Hyejoo said briskly, eyes not leaving Kang Hyuk’s as if daring him to challenge her.

Instead, he nodded once. “OR 2 is prepped. Call anesthesia. Let’s move.”

They walked side by side as the gurney was pushed down the hall—two surgeons, old rivals, moving in sync once again.

Whatever history they shared, whatever words had been left unsaid years ago—would have to wait.

For now, there was a life to save.

The surgery was a success—but exhausting. Hours of high-pressure precision had passed in a blur, and now the operating room was quiet, save for the soft hum of machines and the occasional clatter of instruments being cleared away.

Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk peeled off his gloves and scrubbed his hands in silence. Beside him, Dr. Song Hyejoo did the same. Neither spoke. The air between them was thick with something unspoken—fatigue, yes, but also familiarity.

Finally, Hyejoo broke the silence, her voice low but steady.

“Would it be alright if the patient stayed here until things settle at Amsan? We’re still reorganizing post-incident.”

Kang Hyuk nodded without hesitation. “There’s space in Seoul Medical University Hospital’s trauma wing. He can stay. I’ll keep you updated on his progress… if you’re not able to visit right away.”

She looked at him—surprised, maybe even a little relieved. “Thank you.”

Another pause.

And then, softly, she said, “It’s been a long time.”

“It has,” he replied, eyes meeting hers at last.

The weight of everything they didn’t say hung between them. All the nights spent arguing over case studies, the silent hours of tutoring, the glances stolen in quiet corners of the library.

But before either could speak again, Hyejoo’s phone rang. She glanced at it, her expression tightening.

“Sorry,” she murmured. “I have to go. It’s urgent.”

She picked up her coat and surgical tablet, already halfway out the door when she turned back for one last look.

“I’m leaving my patient in your care. I’ll drop by again later to check on him.” A small smile curved her lips—tired, but sincere. “Thank you again… and… see you.”

The door swung shut behind her.

“…See you,” Kang Hyuk said softly, even though she was already gone.

He stood there for a moment, alone in the sterile silence, staring at the door she’d disappeared through.

The last time he’d seen her was on campus, years ago, when she had suddenly told him she was transferring schools. No explanation. No time for goodbyes.

He had always wondered if their paths would cross again.

Who would’ve thought it would happen here, under the bright lights of the trauma bay, with lives hanging in the balance?

And yet, it felt just like her—to show up in the middle of chaos and leave just as quickly.

But this time, she said she’d come back.

This time, maybe things would be different.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next day arrived quietly, but Kang Hyuk found himself unusually restless.

He had told himself it was nothing. Just professional curiosity, nothing more. After all, the patient was still under his care—it made sense to expect a follow-up from the referring doctor. A check-in. A call. A return.

From her.

But all morning passed in a blur of rounds, paperwork, and silence. No messages. No signs. No Hyejoo.

By early afternoon, he’d resigned himself to the fact that maybe she wasn’t coming.

Then—

“Dr. Baek,” the head nurse called from the hallway, clipboard in hand. “Someone from Amsan Hospital is here to check on the trauma patient from yesterday.”

Kang Hyuk straightened slightly. His heart didn’t race, not exactly, but something in his chest did shift—an expectation that felt suspiciously like hope.

She came back.

But as he stepped out into the hall, the figure who greeted him wasn’t familiar at all.

It was a younger man, maybe a resident, wearing Amsan’s teal uniform. He bowed politely. “Good afternoon, Dr. Baek. I’m Dr. Han, sent by Dr. Song to monitor the patient’s condition and update the records.”

Kang Hyuk’s brows knit together. “Where’s Dr. Song?”

The resident adjusted his glasses. “Ah, she was scheduled to come herself, but she got called into an urgent meeting with our hospital director. She apologizes for not being able to stop by.”

Kang Hyuk didn’t respond immediately.

Just a slight nod.

Professional. Measured.

But the frown tugging at the edge of his mouth betrayed the flicker of disappointment he refused to show.

“I see,” he said simply.

The resident went on briefing him about Hyejoo’s requested post-op protocol, but Kang Hyuk’s thoughts had already drifted elsewhere.

So that was it?

Another brief encounter, another goodbye without warning. Just like last time.

Only this time, he knew where she worked. That she was still the same confident, capable woman from university. Still the one who caught him off guard.

He wasn’t sure if she would come back—but this time, he didn’t want to let it end without trying.

Not again.

Right behind him, Dr. Jaewon and Nurse Jangmi exchanged looks as they observed the surprisingly calm figure of Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk.

“…Okay, not to be that person,” Jangmi whispered, “but why was I half-expecting him to blow up just now?”

Jaewon tilted his head. “Right? A trauma surgeon from another hospital comes in, performs surgery, then bounces and sends updates through a resident? The old Dr. Baek would’ve lost it.”

“Exactly!” Jangmi crossed her arms, still eyeing Kang Hyuk suspiciously. “But here he is. Calm. Civilized. Not even a raised voice.”

Jaewon squinted at their boss. “You think he finally fixed his temper?”

“I don’t know…” Jangmi murmured, narrowing her eyes. “I think it has less to do with his temper and more to do with the surgeon.”

“Dr. Song?” Jaewon asked.

Jangmi nodded slowly. “He’s been… off since she showed up. Don’t you think? Distracted. Zoned out. Soft-spoken, even.”

Jaewon raised his brows. “Wow. You think he’s—?”

“Caught a different kind of fever, maybe,” Jangmi smirked. “Symptoms are all there.”

“I can hear you two,” Kang Hyuk called out, his voice low but unmistakably dry.

Jaewon and Jangmi both stiffened. Jaewon panicked first. “W-We were just talking about post-op fever symptoms! Very common this time of year!”

Jangmi elbowed him.

Kang Hyuk didn’t slow down. “Mm-hmm.”

He disappeared around the corner, white coat trailing behind him like nothing happened.

But the corners of his mouth?

They twitched. Just slightly.

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Their encounter still lingered in Hyejoo’s mind like a heartbeat she couldn’t quiet.

One moment she was fighting to save a young patient’s life, arguing with Amsan’s board for turning him away. The next, she was in an unfamiliar hospital hallway—face to face with someone she never thought she’d see again.

Baek Kang Hyuk.

The name hadn’t crossed her mind at all during the chaos of the transfer. She’d been too occupied, too furious, too focused on getting the boy the urgent care he needed. But the moment she saw his face, something in her shifted. Time bent.

A wave of memory, of familiarity, of something that had once burned quietly beneath late-night study sessions and rivalry-soaked glances.

She was relieved, she realized. Relieved to see him again after all these years.

And not just see him—see him there. Standing tall in his white coat, calm under pressure, taking control of the situation like the surgeon she always knew he’d become.

Of course he’d become someone great. She never doubted it. He was Baek Kang Hyuk—he didn’t just rise to challenges, he met them head-on and left everyone else trying to catch up.

She wanted to talk. To laugh. To ask him how life had been, what kind of doctor he’d become, if he ever thought of her the way she’d occasionally found herself thinking of him.

But life, as always, got in the way.

The Amsan Medical Director had been furious when he found out she transferred a patient to a rival hospital and performed emergency surgery there without clearance.

His voice thundered in the conference room, demanding answers. “Do you think you’re above protocol, Dr. Song?”

No, she thought. I just refuse to stand by and watch a child die because your system favors power over people.

The anger she’d swallowed for months rose to the surface—every time she watched priority given to patients with prestige, while those who couldn’t afford connections were told to wait. Told to suffer. Told to die quietly.

This boy had been her last straw.

She didn’t flinch. She didn’t raise her voice. She simply reached up, unfastened the Amsan coat she wore like a weight, and laid it neatly across the table.

Then she met the director’s furious gaze with unwavering calm.

“I resign.”

The room went silent.

And just like that, she was free.

She had plans—clearer now than ever. To join a hospital that actually prioritized patients. One where she could be a doctor, not a puppet.

And maybe, just maybe, she’d end up at a place where a certain rival-turned-ally wore his coat with pride.

A place where Baek Kang Hyuk still carried that same focused fire in his eyes—the one that once pushed her to be better, and now pulled her in again, without warning.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

Flashback 1: Brief Encounters at Med School

It was their second year at Muan University College of Medicine. Kang Hyuk and Hyejoo were both at the top of their class—undeniably the best, with no one in between. Their rivalry was well-known, with each trying to outdo the other at every turn.

Rumors swirled that Hyejoo came from a wealthy family with high expectations, fueling her relentless drive to always be the best. Kang Hyuk, on the other hand, was a scholarship student working part-time jobs in his free time to make ends meet. Yet, despite his busy schedule, he always managed to outperform Hyejoo.

This, of course, only made Hyejoo more competitive, pushing her to work even harder. But Kang Hyuk never took it personally. Sure, he enjoyed the challenge, but he didn’t view her as a true rival. In fact, he admired her in secret. Her intelligence, wit, and strength—he could see that she wasn’t just obsessed with grades. She genuinely cared about becoming a great doctor, and that sincerity resonated with him.

Their competition never really turned into anything more than sly remarks, competitive glances, and debates in class. They never really spoke outside of that. Until one afternoon, when Hyejoo surprised him.

“You tutor, right? Part-time?” she asked.

Kang Hyuk tilted his head, surprised. He hadn’t had time for tutoring recently, especially when his students were hopeless cases. But for some reason, he found himself intrigued by the idea of tutoring her—or maybe just spending time with her.

“Can you tutor me?” she asked, and Kang Hyuk blinked, unsure why she was asking. Up until now, he thought she couldn’t stand him.

But Hyejoo had always admired Kang Hyuk’s consistency and intelligence, despite his busy life. She understood how much his studies meant to him. And secretly, she admired his dedication. She knew she needed help, and Kang Hyuk was the best person to ask. Her pride was set aside.

That was the beginning of it all—the late-night study sessions, the coffee breaks, the sharing of small, personal secrets. Hyejoo learned that Kang Hyuk’s father had passed away recently, and it was a doctor from Seoul University Hospital who had inspired him to save lives. Kang Hyuk, in turn, learned that Hyejoo’s parents had opposed her decision to pursue medicine. They had other plans for her, but she was determined to prove herself. She never explained why, but he understood there was a sense of urgency. If she didn’t succeed, her parents would stop her from finishing her degree.

As semesters passed, their bond grew, and feelings they hadn’t expected began to surface. But then, just as quickly as it began, it ended. Hyejoo had to transfer to a university in Seoul. Their goodbye was brief, with no words exchanged beyond the essentials.

But in that moment, they both knew they didn’t want to say goodbye. And in that moment, both of them wondered: Would they ever see each other again?

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Will write more flashbacks stories during their university years one of these days don't worry >< this is just like a short preview or summary of their past <3

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

1.3 Cardiac Complications

Dr. Baek Kanghyuk had faced countless medical emergencies. Gunshot wounds, collapsed lungs, cardiac arrests—he had handled them all with precision and composure.

But nothing, nothing, had prepared him for Dr. Song Hye Joo standing a little too close to him.

It wasn’t intentional. She was just trying to get a better look at the patient’s chart he was holding. But when she leaned in, her shoulder lightly brushing against his arm, Kanghyuk felt his entire body lock up.

It was ridiculous. He wasn’t some inexperienced intern. He was a seasoned doctor. This was normal human interaction. And yet—

“Dr. Baek?” Hye Joo’s voice was soft, her breath faintly hitting the side of his neck.

Kanghyuk cleared his throat, hyper-aware of how close she was. “…Yes?”

She pointed at the chart, completely unaware of his internal crisis. “I think the dosage here should be adjusted slightly. The patient’s vitals indicate they might not tolerate the standard amount.”

He barely processed her words. For some reason, all he could focus on was how near she was. How he could catch the subtle scent of her shampoo—something light and clean.

When he didn’t immediately respond, Hye Joo tilted her head up to look at him. “Dr. Baek?”

Kanghyuk exhaled through his nose. Pull yourself together.

“Yes. You’re right,” he said, his voice far too stiff. “Good observation.”

Then, with all the grace of a malfunctioning robot, he took a deliberate step back.

A little too quickly.

His hip collided with the edge of the counter, making a loud thud.

Hye Joo blinked. “…You okay?”

“I’m fine,” he said immediately, standing straighter, pretending like nothing had happened.

But across the room, Dr. Yang Jae Won and Nurse Jang Mi were watching everything unfold.

And they were barely holding it together.

Jang Mi had her hand clamped over her mouth, her shoulders shaking as she tried to suppress her laughter. Jae Won, meanwhile, looked like he was about to combust with glee.

Kanghyuk shot them both a warning glare, but it only made them laugh harder.

“He backed into the counter—” Jang Mi wheezed.

“Because he panicked—” Jae Won added, tears in his eyes.

Kanghyuk ignored them and turned back to Hye Joo, trying to salvage whatever was left of his dignity. “Make the adjustment to the dosage. I’ll review it later.”

Hye Joo, completely oblivious to his suffering, simply nodded. “Of course.”

And with that, she walked away, leaving Kanghyuk to deal with the aftermath of his humiliation.

Jae Won leaned in, smirking. “So, doc… Should we call an ambulance? You seem to be having some cardiac complications.”

Jang Mi wiped away a fake tear. “He’s so strong in the ER but almost passed out from mild physical contact. Amazing.”

Kanghyuk exhaled sharply. “Triple shifts. Both of you.”

Their laughter immediately died.

“Wait, what?!” Jang Mi gasped.

Jae Won groaned. “Come on, man. You can’t keep punishing us for observing.”

Kanghyuk adjusted his coat, regaining his usual calm exterior. “Consider it a test of endurance.”

And with that, he walked off—this time making sure to not back into anything.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

1.2 Side Effects May Include...

Dr. Baek Kanghyuk was nothing if not a professional. He prided himself on his ability to stay focused, composed, and entirely unaffected by trivial matters.

But trivial matters apparently included Dr. Song Hye Joo.

And certain people were starting to notice.

“Dr. Baek,” Nurse Jang Mi called out sweetly, leaning against the nurse’s station with a knowing smile. “You seem awfully interested in Dr. Song’s patient chart. Should I be concerned?”

Kanghyuk, who had not been interested in the chart but rather in the way Hye Joo was speaking to a patient across the room, turned to her with a blank expression. “What are you talking about?”

“She’s talking about how you’ve been watching Dr. Song like she’s a rare specimen under observation,” Dr. Yang Jae Won chimed in, sliding into the conversation with a teasing grin.

Kanghyuk exhaled sharply. “I was simply making sure everything was running smoothly.”

“Uh-huh.” Jae Won crossed his arms. “So what about last night? When you—for the first time in history—decided to personally restock the supply closet while Dr. Song was in there doing inventory?”

Jang Mi gasped dramatically. “Wait, you did that? I thought we had a ghost helper or something!”

Kanghyuk pressed his lips into a firm line. “You two clearly have too much free time.”

“Oh, don’t worry. We make time for important discoveries,” Jang Mi said, smirking. “Like uncovering the fact that our very own Dr. Baek has a soft spot for a certain new doctor~.”

Jae Won leaned in, whispering conspiratorially. “It’s kind of cute, actually. Seeing you all… human for once.”

Kanghyuk shot them both a flat look. “You’re both mistaken.”

Jang Mi feigned disappointment. “Oh, that’s a shame. We were going to be supportive of your little crush, but if you insist—”

“—Then I insist you both take double shifts tomorrow.”

Silence.

Jang Mi’s jaw dropped. “Wait—what?”

Jae Won let out an exaggerated sigh. “Come on, doc. No need to be so defensive.”

Kanghyuk gave them both a slow, satisfied nod. “Consider it an opportunity to focus on actual work instead of pointless gossip.”

Jang Mi groaned, throwing her head back. “This is so unfair. Dr. Song gets a free pass just for existing while we get double shifts?”

Jae Won patted her shoulder solemnly. “It’s the price we pay for seeking the truth.”

Before either of them could argue further, Kanghyuk turned on his heel and walked off, heading toward his next patient. But not before catching a glimpse of Dr. Song Hye Joo in his peripheral vision—focused, determined, a soft furrow in her brow as she reviewed a case file.

He looked away quickly.

Not because he was flustered. Definitely not.

But because the last thing he needed was more ammunition for those two troublemakers.

Unfortunately, Jang Mi still called after him with a singsong voice as Jae Won giggled beside her. “Goodnight, Dr. Baek~! Don’t dream about Dr. Song too much!”

Kanghyuk sighed. He was going to make sure their double shifts were extra exhausting.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

1.1 Early Symptoms of Trouble

Dr. Baek Kanghyuk wasn’t the type to get flustered. He had seen too much—disaster zones, war-torn areas, people on the brink of death. He was composed in chaos, unshaken in the face of catastrophe.

But apparently, he was not immune to Dr. Song Hye Joo.

He already knew who she was the moment she stepped into the trauma center. His old med school rival—sharp, passionate, relentless. It hadn’t even been that long since he saw her again, crouched on top of a patient’s stretcher, trying desperately to keep them conscious. That image stuck with him, etched in the same part of his brain that used to compete with her over test scores and case presentations.

He’d heard the rumors too—how she left her previous hospital because she refused to play politics, how she couldn’t stay in a system that valued power and money over saving lives. It didn’t surprise him. That fire in her had always burned bright. If anything, it had only grown fiercer.

And now, working beside her again, it wasn’t just the history that stirred something in him. There was no hesitation in her actions, no uncertainty in her voice. It was the way she moved, the way she commanded a room without raising her voice. The way she focused, with a quiet intensity that Kanghyuk found himself watching more often than he’d like to admit.

At first, he told himself it was professional curiosity. She was new to the team, after all. He had to evaluate her skills—make sure she could handle the pressure of trauma work, where every second counted.

That excuse held up.

For about three days.

Then it started to crack. Every time he caught himself watching her, every time their banter left a strange warmth in his chest, every time he found himself wondering what she was like now.

It wasn’t just curiosity anymore.

And that realization unnerved him far more than any battlefield ever had.

Which was why, on a Tuesday afternoon in the trauma center, Dr. Baek Kanghyuk found himself more distracted than usual.

“Careful, Dr. Song,” he said as he glanced over from the trauma board, catching her scribbling notes with her pen half-capped. “You’re going to stain your lab coat with ink again. That’s the third one this week.”

Hyejoo didn’t even look up. “You keeping track of my lab coats now, Dr. Baek? That’s oddly domestic of you.”

He scoffed. “Just observant. Unlike some people who are too busy scribbling like a med student cramming before finals.”

She finally turned to him with a playful smile and a glint in her eyes. “Aw, are you reminiscing about our old study nights? Don’t tell me you’re still thinking about the way you kept sneaking glances at me over your notes—trying so hard to pretend you weren’t impressed.”

Kanghyuk raised a brow, lips parting for a rebuttal. “Now hold on—”

But for once, nothing came out. His brain stalled. The mental comeback he was crafting simply… vanished, replaced by the memory of her across a library table, head tilted, the edge of her mouth curled in exactly that same way.

He blinked.

The silence lasted a beat too long.

Jaewon let out a wheeze from behind them. “Did… Did Dr. Baek just short-circuit?”

Jangmi was already clutching her chest, barely containing her laughter. “Looks like we finally have someone who can handle Dr. Baek.”

Kanghyuk exhaled slowly, shooting them both a flat look. “Don’t you two have charts to update?”

They laughed harder.

Hyejoo turned away, smug and unbothered, brushing past Kanghyuk with a chuckle. “I’ll be in trauma bay two if you want to keep score, Doctor.”

He watched her go, still trying to formulate a response. Something sharp. Something clever. Anything.

But nothing came.

Jaewon clapped him on the back. “You’ve finally met your match huh?”

“I’ve been waiting for this my whole life.” Jangmi said with a wide grin on her face.

Kanghyuk groaned, rubbing his temples. “You two talk too much.”

And yet… the corner of his mouth tugged upward.

Because maybe—just maybe—he didn’t mind losing this round.

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Trauma Code: A Hero in Love - Chapter List

Trauma Code: A Hero in Love

genre: workplace romance, comedy, mutual pinning, slow-burn, banter, suggestive

A series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang Hyuk (Ju Jihoon) and Dr. Song Hye Joo (Song Hyekyo)

When Dr. Baek’s former med school rival, Dr. Song Hyejoo, joins the trauma center team, his usual composure is shaken—just a little competitive, and maybe a little shy. As they face emergencies together, they learn to work in sync, and they rediscover something they never dared explore before.

This will be a series of one-shot stories between Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk and Dr. Song Hye-joo (my OC; played by Song Hyekyo, because why not. Also I badly need the casting directors to pair them for a romcom or melo drama together 👉🏻👈🏻).

It’s not a story where everything is in chronological order or a continuation of what happened to the previous chapters. It’s like a series of moments.

Might include a chapter with their backstory in university and when they met again after many years when Dr. Song is introduced as the new addition to the trauma center team before I upload a series of chapter moments between them ><

I tried to keep Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk’s character as similar and accurate as I can, but you know what, 🎀 I’m just a girl 🎀 who wants to see him be a little clumsy and shy around his (secret) crush. So if it’s a little inaccurate or if you think it’s out of character, then I’m so sorry asdfsghjkg ;—; but isn’t it fun to imagine the cool (sexy) hot-tempered doctor become a fool in love for someone? Like a total loser. Frankly it’s my favorite character trope. He’s all mean and scowly with other people, and then he absolutely melts and malfunctions when a beautiful, strong, and intelligent woman (a.k.a his long-time crush) comes near him.

Anyway, I hope you guys enjoy it!!🥹 I’ve already written A LOT of random chapters. And I might also include a little bit of nsfw, or maybe just suggestive, IDK I have no experience in writing sensual scenes, I feel like it’s gonna sound cringey when I do it wish me luck🥲👍🏻

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Chapter List:

1.1 Early Symptoms of Trouble 1.2 Side Effects May Include... 1.3 Cardiac Complications

Flashback 1: Brief Encounters at Med School Flashback 2: Reunion in the Trauma Bay Flashback 3: Check His Vitals— She's Back

2.1 Diagnosis - Obvious 2.2 Late Night Consultations - Catching Up

3.1 A Prescription for Lunch 3.2 White Coats & Warm Blankets

4.1 The Mom & Dad of the Trauma Center 4.2 Code Blue - Parental Unit 4.3 When Dr. Dad Noticed 4.4 When Dr. Mom Noticed