Guardian of my Heart // Keesoul

The Encounter

Chapter 28: The Encounter

Soul's heart raced as he spotted Keeho in the distance, a familiar silhouette that had been etched into his mind for months. It was a sunny afternoon, and Soul had been wandering through the park, sketchbook in hand, when laughter caught his attention. There, amidst a small group of people, stood Keeho, his vibrant smile lighting up the day as he interacted effortlessly with the crowd.

"Is that...?" Soul muttered to himself, rubbing his eyes to make sure he wasn't dreaming. No, it was definitely him—tousled hair, casual clothes, and that unmistakable charm that drew people in. Soul felt a familiar ache in his chest, a longing that stirred memories he had tried so hard to bury.

Soul's instincts kicked in, and before he could think twice, he began to move closer, heart pounding with a mix of excitement and anxiety. He knew he should have just walked up to Keeho, told him how much he had missed him, and asked about everything that had happened since they last saw each other. But the fear of rejection and the uncertainty of Keeho's feelings stopped him in his tracks. Instead, he opted to stay hidden, slipping behind a nearby tree to observe from a distance.

As he peered through the leaves, he realized Keeho was engaged in conversation with another person—a tall guy with dark hair and an easygoing smile. Soul squinted, trying to catch snippets of their conversation. There was an air of camaraderie between them, laughter mingling with the soft breeze. Keeho looked relaxed and happy, and part of Soul felt warmth at the sight. But another part, the part that had been nursing wounds for too long, felt a pang of jealousy.

"What's going on?" Soul whispered to himself, biting his lip as he leaned in closer, trying to hear more.

"I just got assigned to this mission, and it's going to be amazing," Keeho said, his voice bright and animated. "I'll be helping someone who really needs it."

The other guy nodded, looking intrigued. "That's awesome! You always have a way of connecting with people. It's like you're meant for this."

Keeho laughed, a sound that sent shivers down Soul's spine. "I just try to be myself, you know? Besides, it's fun to help people out. Just like I helped my last... friend."

Soul felt the breath hitch in his throat. The thought of Keeho helping someone else, someone who would take his place, struck a chord deep within him. He didn't want to feel this way, but he couldn't shake the insecurity that wrapped around his heart like a vice.

Trying to focus on the conversation, Soul squatted down lower, keeping his presence concealed. He wanted to know what Keeho was up to, who this new person was, and why he felt so inexplicably drawn to the scene before him. He observed as Keeho gestured animatedly, clearly enjoying the conversation, completely unaware of Soul's watchful gaze.

"You know, the more I learn about this mission, the more I realize how important it is," Keeho continued. "I just hope I can make a real difference. I want to help them see that life can be beautiful."

"Dude, you will," the guy said, clapping Keeho on the shoulder. "You always do."

Keeho smiled, a genuine smile that reminded Soul of countless afternoons spent together. The memories flooded back—painting together, laughing over snacks, and those tender moments when Keeho had reassured him that he was worthy of love and friendship. Soul squeezed his eyes shut, trying to fight back the rush of emotions that threatened to overwhelm him.

As he watched, Soul's mind raced with questions. What was this new mission? Who was this person that seemed to share a bond with Keeho? The jealousy bubbled beneath the surface, but Soul pushed it aside, forcing himself to breathe. He had to remind himself that Keeho was still out there, doing what he loved, and that was important.

Suddenly, Keeho glanced around, and Soul's heart leapt into his throat. Did he see him? He ducked behind the tree, holding his breath as he waited, anxiety coursing through him. A few tense moments passed before he cautiously peeked out again. Keeho was still focused on his companion, laughter bubbling from his lips.

But then, something changed. The air shifted, and Keeho's expression turned serious as he looked at the ground. Soul leaned in closer, straining to hear.

"Are you sure it's safe?" Keeho asked, concern evident in his voice.

The other guy shrugged, but there was a hint of worry in his eyes. "I think so. But you know how these things can go. Just be careful, okay?"

"I will. I promise," Keeho replied, a hint of determination in his tone.

Soul's heart sank as he realized the weight of the situation. Keeho was in the middle of another mission, something that required caution and care. He felt a surge of protective instinct, wanting to rush in and remind Keeho of how valuable he was—not just as a guardian angel, but as a person.

As if reading Soul's thoughts, Keeho glanced around again, but this time, he seemed to be scanning the area, as if sensing something was off. Soul's breath caught, but he couldn't let himself be seen.

Just as he was about to step back, Soul heard the conversation shift again.

"Look, I have to go. Just keep me posted, okay? I'll check in later," Keeho said, his tone light but with an underlying seriousness.

"Yeah, definitely. Good luck, Keeho," the guy replied.

Soul's heart raced as he watched Keeho turn away, heading in the opposite direction. He felt a rush of conflicting emotions—fear for Keeho's safety, the longing for their connection, and the pain of seeing him move on with someone else. He couldn't let Keeho forget about him, not when they had shared something so special.

As Keeho disappeared from view, Soul felt a mix of sadness and determination settle within him. He had to confront this feeling, whatever it was, before it consumed him completely. He couldn't allow Keeho's mission to become a barrier between them; instead, he would find a way to support him.

With a newfound resolve, Soul stepped out from behind the tree and began walking in the direction Keeho had gone, ready to uncover whatever it was that lay ahead, even if it meant confronting the emotions that had been building up inside him for so long.

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