Lost In You

Chapter 15 - After A Year

Neung

It has been a year since I left the university. A full year since I walked away from teaching, from the world I built with Aneung, and tried to convince myself it was the right thing to do. Despite the decision, no amount of time seemed to ease the hollow feeling that lingered in my chest. Every corner of this city—our city—breathed her presence, yet somehow, we never crossed paths. It was like the universe itself was conspiring to keep us apart, giving me just enough space to ache for her without ever seeing her.

My days at the gallery had become my sanctuary. The art kept me grounded, gave me purpose. Together with Lux, my business partner, I buried myself in exhibitions, meetings, and openings. Lux was the practical one—sharp, focused, always one step ahead when it came to business. She kept things moving when I was too lost in my own thoughts.

But even as I immersed myself in the gallery's world, Aneung haunted me. Late at night, I would find myself scrolling through old photos, reading messages I should have deleted, and tracing the letters of her name in my mind. I had left the university to move on, but it seemed like no matter how far I ran, I couldn't leave her behind.

Lux walked into my office one morning, her brisk energy a stark contrast to the lethargy I had been feeling. "Khun Neung, don't forget," she said, tapping a folder on my desk, "there's a class visiting the gallery today. They've got a tour booked and you're doing a sharing session after. University students, I think."

I glanced at the clock, already half dreading the interaction. I had gotten used to being in the background, letting Lux handle the more social aspects of our business. But today, there was no avoiding it.

"Right," I nodded, forcing myself to focus. "I'll be ready."

Lux gave me a look, half concerned, half amused. "Try not to look too moody," she teased. "You're supposed to inspire them, not scare them off."

I smiled faintly at her comment but couldn't shake the nervous energy building inside me. I tried to tell myself it was just another day. Just another class. But something about it felt different.

Off.

The gallery was already buzzing with the sounds of students when I walked into the main hall. I spotted Lux near the entrance, chatting with their Professor. The students moved between the art pieces, some attentive, others clearly here just to pass time.

I approached the group, ready to do my part. But then, my heart nearly stopped.

Standing near the back of the group, a few steps behind her classmates, was Aneung.

She looked...different, yet the same. Her hair was a little longer, her posture a little straighter. There was a maturity about her that hadn't been there a year ago. But her eyes, those same deep, knowing eyes, were what caught me. They were fixed on me, wide and disbelieving.

I froze. The gallery, the students, Lux—they all faded away in that moment. It was just her. And me.

I had imagined this moment a thousand times. What I would say, how I would act if we ever met again. But now that she was standing here, less than ten feet away, I couldn't find a single word. The air between us felt thick, heavy with all the things we hadn't said.

"Khun Neung?" Lux's voice cut through the haze, bringing me back to reality. "Shall we start the session?"

I blinked, nodding stiffly. "Yes, of course."

I took my place in front of the group, trying to steady my breath. I began speaking about the gallery, about the art, but my mind was elsewhere. As I spoke, I felt her eyes on me. Every glance I stole her way confirmed it—Aneung was watching me. Intently.