Broken Paths || Wen JunHui

Chapter 7: The Descent

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The days grew longer as Jun's feelings for Da-Rae intensified. He found himself caught in a web of longing and frustration, his thoughts consumed by her presence. Each session with her was both a blessing and a curse; he cherished the time spent together, but it also deepened his obsession.

One morning, Jun sat in the garden, his sketchpad open on his lap. The drawing of Da-Rae he was working on was his most detailed yet, capturing her serene expression and gentle smile. He was so engrossed in his work that he didn't notice Soo-Jin approaching until she sat down beside him.

"That's beautiful," Soo-Jin remarked, peering at the sketch. "You've really captured her essence." Jun quickly closed the sketchpad, his cheeks flushing. "Thanks. I've just been drawing to pass the time."

Soo-Jin gave him a knowing look. "Jun, we've talked about this. If your feelings for Da-Rae are becoming too intense, you need to address them."

"I know," Jun muttered, avoiding her gaze. "But I can't help it. She's always on my mind."Soo-Jin sighed, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You need to be careful. Obsession can be dangerous, especially when it comes to someone who's trying to help you."

"I know," Jun repeated, frustration creeping into his voice. "I just don't know what to do."

That evening, Jun found himself standing outside Da-Rae's office. It was late, and the hospital was quiet. He knew she often stayed late to catch up on paperwork, and he felt an irresistible urge to see her. He raised his hand to knock but hesitated. What would he say? How could he explain his feelings without scaring her away?

As he stood there, the door opened, and Da-Rae looked up in surprise. "Jun? What are you doing here so late?"

Jun's heart raced. "I... I couldn't sleep. I was hoping to talk to you."

Da-Rae's expression softened, and she stepped aside to let him in. "Of course. Come in."

Jun entered the office, his eyes scanning the familiar surroundings. He took a seat, feeling a mix of anxiety and anticipation. Da-Rae sat across from him, her gaze gentle and patient. "What's on your mind?" she asked.

Jun hesitated, his thoughts a jumble of emotions. "I've been struggling," he admitted. "With everything that's happened, and... with my feelings."

"Your feelings?" Da-Rae prompted, her tone encouraging.

"For you," Jun blurted out, unable to hold back any longer. "I know it's wrong, and I know you're engaged, but I can't stop thinking about you. You've been so kind, so understanding. I've never felt this way before."

Da-Rae's eyes widened slightly, but she remained composed. "Jun, it's natural to develop feelings for someone who's been a source of support and comfort. It's called transference, and it's a common part of therapy. But it's important to understand that these feelings are a part of your healing process, not necessarily a reflection of reality."

"I know," Jun said, his voice trembling. "But it feels so real. I don't know how to make it stop." Da-Rae leaned forward, her expression earnest. "The best way to handle these feelings is to continue focusing on your recovery. It's important to set boundaries and recognize that what you're experiencing is a part of your journey toward healing. We can work through this together, but you have to trust the process."

Jun nodded, feeling a mixture of relief and disappointment. "I'll try. It's just... hard."

"I understand," Da-Rae said gently. "And I'm here to help you every step of the way. But we need to keep our professional boundaries intact. It's the best way for you to heal."

The following days were a struggle for Jun. He tried to focus on his recovery, but his thoughts kept drifting back to Da-Rae. His sketches of her became more frequent, more detailed, and he found himself lingering outside her office, hoping for a glimpse of her.

One afternoon, as he was sketching in the garden, Soo-Jin approached him with a concerned expression. "Jun, I've noticed you've been more withdrawn lately. Is everything okay?"

Jun looked up, his eyes shadowed with fatigue. "I'm trying to manage my feelings, but it's hard. I see Da-Rae every day, and it's driving me crazy."

Soo-Jin sat down beside him, her expression sympathetic. "Have you talked to her about it?""I tried," Jun admitted. "But she told me it's a part of the healing process and that we need to keep our boundaries."

"She's right," Soo-Jin said gently. "But it doesn't make it any easier. Maybe it would help to focus on something else. A hobby, a project—something to divert your attention."

Jun sighed, knowing she was right. "I'll try. It's just... hard to think about anything else."Soo-Jin gave him a supportive smile. "One step at a time, Jun. You're stronger than you realize."

That evening, Jun decided to take Soo-Jin's advice. He picked up his sketchpad and started a new drawing, this time focusing on something other than Da-Rae. He chose a scene from the garden, capturing the tranquility of the space that had become his refuge.

As he sketched, he felt a sense of calm wash over him. It wasn't a solution, but it was a start. He knew he had a long way to go, but with the support of Da-Rae, Soo-Jin, and the others at the hospital, he felt a glimmer of hope.

Yet, as the days passed, Jun couldn't completely shake his feelings for Da-Rae. They lingered in the back of his mind, a constant reminder of the complexity of his emotions. He continued to navigate his recovery, determined to find a way to balance his feelings and his progress.

The line between admiration and obsession remained thin, and Jun knew he had to tread carefully. But with each step forward, he gained a deeper understanding of himself and the strength to face the challenges ahead.

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