Moonstruck ✧･ﾟLee Heeseung

XIV. The Distance

Author POV

Heeseung packed the last of his belongings into his car, taking a moment to look around his now-empty apartment. The past few days had been a whirlwind of emotions, and the reality of moving to the city was finally sinking in. As he glanced at his phone, he saw a message from Ari: "Drive safe, my love. I'll miss you so much."

Heeseung smiled softly, his heart aching at the thought of leaving her behind. He had promised her that they would make this work, and he intended to keep that promise. With one last look around, he got into his car and drove away, the small town growing smaller in his rearview mirror.

Ari POV

Watching Heeseung's car disappear down the road, I felt a lump form in my throat. The past few days had been filled with tearful goodbyes and promises to stay connected, but now that he was actually gone, the reality of the situation hit me hard.

I went back to my apartment, trying to distract myself with my photography projects. But everything reminded me of Heeseung—the art supplies he had left behind, the sketches he had drawn, and the lingering scent of his cologne. I sat on the couch, hugging a pillow to my chest, feeling a wave of loneliness wash over me.

Author POV

The first few days were the hardest. Heeseung and Ari texted constantly, trying to bridge the gap with frequent messages and updates. But as the days turned into weeks, the reality of the distance began to take its toll. The city was bustling and busy, and Heeseung found himself caught up in a whirlwind of gallery preparations and meetings.

One evening, after a particularly exhausting day, Heeseung collapsed onto his bed and pulled out his phone. He dialed Ari's number, his heart longing to hear her voice.

Heeseung POV

"Ari, baby," I said as soon as she answered. "I miss you so much."

"I miss you too, Hee," she replied, her voice tinged with sadness. "How was your day?"

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "It was busy. The gallery wants me to finish a few more pieces before the showcase, and it's been overwhelming. But all I can think about is you."

Ari's face appeared on the screen as we switched to a video call. Seeing her smile, even through the small screen, made my heart ache with longing. "You're doing amazing, Hee. I'm so proud of you."

"I couldn't do this without your support, my sweet girl," I said, my voice softening. "I just wish you were here with me."

Ari POV

Looking at Heeseung's tired but handsome face on the screen, I felt a surge of love and pride. "I'm always here for you, Heeseung. No matter how far apart we are."

We talked for hours, sharing the details of our days and reassuring each other that the distance was temporary. Heeseung told me about the city and the gallery, his eyes lighting up with excitement as he described his work. Despite the miles between us, our connection remained strong.

As the weeks passed, we found a rhythm. We scheduled video calls every evening, making sure to carve out time for each other despite our busy schedules. I sent Heeseung letters and care packages, filling them with little reminders of home and our time together. He responded with drawings and notes, each one a testament to his love.

Author POV

The distance was challenging, but it also brought them closer in unexpected ways. They learned to appreciate the small moments, the late-night conversations, and the simple joy of seeing each other's faces on a screen. Their bond deepened as they navigated the challenges of a long-distance relationship.