Unwavering solace II

Nyeoseog 1

Unwavering Solace
By Leiria
Fortuitous Run-in

Harin sat in the library, surrounded by research papers and notes, his eyes straining under the dim light. The pressure of an upcoming project and the weight of expectations bore down on him. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't shake the feeling of inadequacy. Ilman's presence, once a source of strength, had become a distant whisper, leaving Harin feeling more alone than ever.

He glanced around the library, noticing the quiet determination of his peers. Everyone seemed so focused, so sure of themselves. Harin sighed, rubbing his temples to ward off the growing headache. He had to complete this project, to push through this, but his mind kept wandering.

"You're slipping" Ilman's voice echoed faintly in his mind. It was a shadow of its former self, barely more than a whisper. "You need to focus."

Harin clenched his fists, frustration boiling over. "I am trying, but it's not the same without you. I can't do this alone."

There was no response. Ilman had become increasingly elusive, retreating further into the recesses of Harin's mind. The connection they once shared felt tenuous, like a thread stretched to its limit, ready to snap.

Suddenly, the library door creaked open, Elise spotted Harin and made her way over, her expression a mix of determination and concern.

"You look like you could use a break" She said, her tone light but her eyes filled with concern.

Harin forced a smile. "Yeah, maybe. Just trying to keep up with everything."

Elise stood nearby, respecting the personal space. "I know things have been tough but you shouldn't be too hard on yourself"

Harin shook his head. "What can i do .... I have to keep pushing. If I don't, I'll just fall behind."

She sighed, crossing her arms thoughtfully. "You're already doing more than enough though, Let's take a break"

Harin hesitated, glancing at his notes. But the idea of a break, of escaping the suffocating atmosphere of the library, was too tempting to resist. "Okay, just a short one."

As they walked out of the library, Harin felt the weight on his shoulders lighten slightly. The cool evening air was a welcome relief, and for a moment, he allowed himself to breathe, to simply exist without the constant pressure.

"You know," Elise said, breaking the silence, "They got new drinks if am not mistaken."

Harin arched an eyebrow, his gaze shifting to the familiar cafe in front of him. "huh? ... they are making ... a new recipe?" he asked , disbelief coloring his tone.

Elise nodded, hopping over the cat-patterned tiles on the floor "Yeah, after three years making the same old stuff."

He shook his head, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, "Guess even they got bored of their own menu." He paused, casting another glance at the cafe. "Makes you wonder what finally sparked the change."

"Same with us," Elise added thoughtfully. "We could change overnight if we wanted to, the hardest part is realizing we're ready"

As they continued their walk, Harin felt a renewed sense of determination. He wasn't alone, and maybe, just maybe, he could find a way to balance his responsibilities with his well-being. The road ahead was still daunting, but he felt a glimmer of hope even just for a little.

Harin and Elise walked side by side, the world around them fading into a soft blur. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows, and the air was filled with the gentle rustle of leaves.