The Starting Line. [On Break!]

Chapter 11: Resurfacing Demons {.: James/Jeo :.}

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the park, James approached the familiar meeting spot. Jeo was already there, sitting on a bench, a slight breeze gently rustling her hair. There was a calmness in her demeanor, a quiet anticipation that mirrored James' own.

A soft smile tugged at James' lips as he took in the sight of Jeo, her presence instantly soothing his restless thoughts. In that moment, the chaos and uncertainties of their world seemed to fade into the background, leaving only the two of them in a serene bubble of tranquility.

He walked towards her, his footsteps light and unhurried, wanting to savor every second of their time together. Jeo looked up as she noticed his approach, a bashful smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Hi," Jeo greeted, her voice gentle as she offered a small wave.

James returned her greeting, his own smile growing wider. "Hey, Jeo," he replied, his tone filled with warmth. "It's good to see you."

They shared a brief, comfortable silence, the gentle breeze weaving through the trees, carrying with it a sense of serenity. In that moment, the park became their haven, and their friendship served as an anchor in the midst of a chaotic world.

Jeo's cheeks flushed with a bashful tint as she spoke. "I have to admit, I was a little nervous about asking to hang out," she confessed. "But I'm grateful that you're here. I needed this... this comfort, you know?"

James listened attentively, his expression softening as he empathized with her words. "I understand," he responded, his voice gentle and reassuring. "We all need those moments to decompress and escape the chaos of reality. And I'm glad that I can provide you with some sense of comfort."

Jeo's gaze dropped, her shyness becoming more apparent. Her voice, barely above a whisper, carried a tinge of vulnerability. "It's just... being around you, James, it's different," she admitted, her cheeks growing warmer. "There's a sense of safety that washes over me, like nothing can harm me when you're near."

James felt his heart skip a beat at her words, his own cheeks tinting with a hint of color. He reached out, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Jeo," he said softly, his voice filled with sincerity, "I cherish our friendship, and your trust means a lot to me. I'll always be here for you, to provide that sense of safety and support."

Jeo looked up, meeting his gaze, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and fondness. A shy smile played on her lips as she spoke, her voice filled with warmth. "Thank you, James. Your presence brings me comfort, and I'm grateful to have you as my friend."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the park, James and Jeo continued their conversation, their bond strengthening with every word shared. In that moment, amidst the tranquility of the park, their friendship bloomed, offering solace and strength in a world that often seemed overwhelming.

Their laughter and connection filled the air, creating a bubble of joy and solace in the midst of the park. The world around them seemed to fade away as James and Jeo reveled in the warmth of their friendship. Little did they know that an unexpected visitor was about to shatter their peaceful hangout.

A dark, foreboding presence gradually encroached upon their moment of tranquility, casting a shadow over their carefree laughter. James' senses heightened, a subtle unease crawling up his spine. He instinctively stepped forward, placing himself protectively between Jeo and the approaching figure.

His gaze fixated on the silhouette growing closer, his expression firm and determined. The air crackled with tension as James prepared himself for the confrontation that awaited them. In that moment, his focus shifted from the carefree atmosphere to shielding Jeo from whatever trouble lay ahead.