The Guardian & His Ward: An AlanGaipa Story

Unwanted Encounters

Gaipa and Alan had settled into a comfortable routine. Gaipa had been keeping himself busy by taking a few short courses at the nearby university, trying to find what he wanted to do aside from just receiving money from his inheritance. Alan on the other hand continued to work with his clients and now he even had gone back to the gym. He realized how much he used to love the routine of exercising before things with Wen got so tiresome that he didn't want to do anything at all. A few days a week they spent managing Gaipa's finances and investments, and their evenings often turned into shared meals and light-hearted conversations. Alan and Gaipa became so close fast, that they did not even notice that what they were was not how a normal Guardian-Ward relationship is. 

Gaipa's cheerful nature had a way of drawing Alan out of his shell, and Alan's steady presence provided Gaipa with the stability he craved. They did not find it weird how much they have learned to navigate their lives around each other and now they are so seamlessly combined that they both couldn't imagine a time when they didn't exist in the other's life. Their age difference didn't even seem significant at all because Gaipa, despite his younger age, is not fond of going out partying, and he even only drinks on occasion. The younger boy was so used to a quiet time at home with his mom before she passed that just being at home, watching a new series, or reading a book with Alan never felt boring to him. He was so comfortable with this lifestyle and in fact, loved it. 

One sunny afternoon, they decided to take a break from their usual routine. Gaipa had suggested visiting a new art exhibit at the local museum, and Alan, always appreciative of culture, had agreed. They walked through the museum's grand halls, admiring the intricate paintings and sculptures. Gaipa's excitement was palpable, and Alan found himself smiling more than he had in months.

After the museum, they decided to grab lunch at a quaint café nearby. The café was nestled on a charming street, with outdoor seating shaded by large umbrellas. They found a table and settled in, enjoying the warm breeze and the lively atmosphere.

As they waited for their food, Gaipa chatted animatedly about the art they had seen. Alan listened, amused by Gaipa's enthusiasm. It was a side of life he had forgotten existed, and he was grateful for the reminder. With Gaipa, Alan is not only the boring and inflexible Financial Adviser like Wen often accused him of being. He gets to be spontaneous, and he feels

 young again thanks to Gaipa's warmth and lively presence.

"Alan, have you ever painted?" Gaipa asked suddenly, his eyes bright with curiosity.

Alan chuckled. "Not since I was a kid. I'm not sure I'd be any good at it."

Gaipa grinned. "You should try it again. It doesn't matter if you're good. It's about expressing yourself."

Alan was about to respond when he noticed a familiar figure approaching their table. His heart sank as he recognized Wen, his ex-boyfriend, walking hand-in-hand with Jim, Gaipa's unrequited love. The world seemed to narrow down to that one moment, and Alan felt a wave of conflicting emotions wash over him.

Gaipa's eyes widened as he followed Alan's gaze. "Jim," he whispered, his voice barely audible. His face reflected a mix of surprise and pain, and Alan's heart ached for him.

Wen and Jim reached their table, and for a moment, there was an awkward silence. Wen was the first to speak, his voice tinged with discomfort. "Alan, Gaipa. It's been a while."

Alan forced a smile, his emotions tightly controlled. "Yes, it has."

Jim looked at Gaipa, his expression unreadable. "Hi, Gaipa. How have you been?"

Gaipa managed a small smile, though his eyes betrayed his hurt. "I've been okay, Jim. And you?"

Jim hesitated, glancing at Wen before replying. "Good. Things have been good."