Guarded |Jeemin x Sarang | IZNA

CHAPTER 11

Jeemin pulled into the school parking lot, the morning sunlight casting a warm glow over the bustling campus. She parked her car and stepped out, walking around to open the passenger door for Sarang. Sarang emerged, smiling brightly at Jeemin, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

The crisp autumn air carried the scent of freshly cut grass and the distant chatter of students. Jeemin closed the door and took Sarang's hand, feeling a sense of comfort in their familiar gesture. Together, they strolled towards the school building, its exterior gleaming in the morning light.

As they approached the entrance, Jeemin spotted their friends, waiting by the fountain. They exchanged waves and smiles. Not wanting their friends to misinterpret their hand-holding, Jeemin slowly released Sarang's hand, her fingers slipping away gently.

Sarang noticed her hand was no longer in Jeemin's, but she didn't overthink it. She assumed Jeemin might still be uncomfortable showing affection in front of their friends, so she let it slide.

As they proceeded in the crowded hallways, Sarang occasionally brushed arms with Jeemin, their subtle touches a reminder of their connection.

Sarang sprinted towards her friends, her sneakers squeaking on the polished floor. She enveloped Jungeun, Koko and Saebi and then Jiyoon and Mai in tight, individual hugs, her arms wrapped warmly around them.

"How was your weekend?" Jungeun asked, releasing Sarang from her embrace. Her curious gaze sparkled.

"Soooo good!" Sarang exclaimed, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. Her eyes shone like stars, reflecting the joy that filled her heart. Memories of her time with Jeemin flooded her mind – laughter, comfort, and even the tears they'd shared.

Jeemin watched, her lips curving into a gentle smile. For a fleeting moment, she forgot everything else, lost in Sarang's radiant expression. The way Sarang's eyes crinkled at the corners, the flush on her cheeks, and the infectious energy that surrounded her – all captivated Jeemin.

As Sarang continued sharing stories, Jeemin's gaze lingered, tracing the contours of Sarang's face. Her heart swelled with affection, grateful for the bond they shared.

"Jeemin, where's your bag?" Mai asked, eyeing Jeemin's empty hands.

Jeemin's gaze drifted, her mind still on Sarang's bright smile. Suddenly, realization dawned – she had left her bag in the car.

The group's collective grin hinted at amusement. Koko teased, "You forgot your own bag but remembered to carry Sarang's?"

Jeemin playfully rolled her eyes and lightly tapped Koko's shoulder, earning chuckles from the group.

"I'll grab my bag, wait for me," Jeemin said, hurrying towards her car. Her sneakers echoed off the school's brick facade as she swiftly disappeared from view.

As she turned to leave, the group swooped in, encircling Sarang with curiosity. Their faces leaned in, eyes sparkling with interest.

Sarang's cheeks flushed pink as she glanced at Jeemin's retreating figure. Her friends' excitement was palpable, their anticipation hanging like a collective unspoken question.

The warm sunlight cast a glow on the scene, illuminating the group's animated expressions

Mai's eyes sparkled with mischief as she asked, "So who's taking care of whom?" Her voice dripped with teasing curiosity, recalling how Sarang had nursed Jeemin back to health just days before.

Saebi chimed in, her voice tinged with excitement, "Yes, yes, spill the tea before Jeemin unnie is back" The group leaned in, their faces aglow with anticipation.