4 Answers
I’m a sucker for Jeno angst fics that balance pain with hope. 'Halfway Home' is a standout—it’s set in a universe where Jeno leaves NCT and tries to rebuild his life. The angst is crushing, but the fic avoids melodrama by grounding his struggles in everyday details, like him working at a café and reconnecting with music. The romantic subplot with Jisung is understated but sweet. Another one, 'Silent Screams,' tackles Jeno’s repressed trauma from training days, and the group’s dynamic feels so real. The healing isn’t linear, and that’s what makes it compelling. Both fics use sparse dialogue and heavy introspection, which suits Jeno’s quiet strength.
I’ve noticed Jeno-centric angsty fics often focus on his duality—soft yet strong. 'Paper Cuts' stands out because it’s not just about romance; it’s about Jeno learning to forgive himself after a fallout with his family. The healing arc is gradual, with small moments like him baking with Chenle or late-night talks with Renjun adding warmth. The author avoids clichés, making the emotional weight feel earned. Another favorite is 'Fractured Light,' where Jeno copes with the pressure of being an idol while hiding his anxiety. The way his bond with Mark evolves from rivalry to mutual support is beautifully written. These fics don’t rush the healing, which makes the payoff satisfying.
For Jeno-centric angst, 'Borrowed Time' on AO3 is a must-read. It’s shorter but packs a punch—Jeno grapples with a terminal illness, and the fic focuses on his relationships with the Dream members. The emotions are intense, but the writing avoids being overly sentimental. The ending is bittersweet, focusing on legacy rather than cure. Another solid pick is 'Wilt,' where Jeno’s burnout manifests as self-doubt, and the group’s intervention feels genuine. Both fics excel in showing vulnerability without weakness.
I’ve been obsessed with NCT fanfics lately, especially those diving into Jeno’s character. There’s this one called 'Fading Echoes' on AO3 that absolutely wrecked me. It’s a slow-burn angst fic where Jeno deals with the aftermath of losing his passion for dance, and the healing process is so raw and real. The author nails his internal struggle, blending flashbacks with present-day moments where he slowly reconnects with his love for movement. The pairing with Jaemin is subtle but impactful, more about emotional support than romance, which I appreciate.
Another gem is 'Scars Like Stars,' which explores Jeno recovering from a career-ending injury. The angst is heavy, but the way the writer weaves in his relationships with the other Dream members feels authentic. The fic doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, and the ending isn’t neatly tied up—just like real healing. If you’re into darker themes, 'Blackout' delves into Jeno’s struggles with identity and fame, though it’s more intense. The writing style in all these fics is immersive, making the pain and eventual hope palpable.