Broken Paths || Wen JunHui

Chapter 6: Unexpected Feelings

⋆˙⟡♡⚕🩺⊹ 🤍

The routine of the hospital had become a source of stability for Jun. Each day brought a mix of therapy sessions, interactions with fellow patients, and quiet moments in the garden. His friendship with Soo-Jin continued to flourish, and their shared experiences gave him a sense of camaraderie he hadn't known in years. However, another relationship was beginning to evolve in unexpected ways.

Jun's sessions with Da-Rae had always been a cornerstone of his recovery. Her patient, empathetic approach allowed him to explore his emotions without judgment. Over time, he found himself looking forward to their meetings, not just for the therapeutic benefit but also for the connection he felt with her.

One afternoon, as Jun sat in his usual spot in Da-Rae's office, he noticed a slight change in the way he felt. There was a warmth, a subtle excitement that he couldn't quite place.

"How have you been feeling since the group therapy session?" Da-Rae asked, her tone gentle and encouraging.

"I've been doing better," Jun replied, a small smile forming on his lips. "It was intimidating at first, but having Soo-Jin there made it easier. Sharing my story with others, hearing theirs... it was liberating."

"I'm glad to hear that," Da-Rae said, her eyes reflecting genuine warmth. "Group therapy can be a powerful tool for healing. It helps us realize we're not alone in our struggles."

Jun nodded, his gaze lingering on Da-Rae for a moment longer than usual. "You've been a big part of my progress, too. These sessions... they mean a lot to me."

"I'm happy to be a part of your journey, Jun," Da-Rae replied, her smile kind. "You've come a long way since you first arrived."

As they continued their session, Jun found himself more aware of Da-Rae's presence. He noticed the way her eyes crinkled slightly when she smiled, the gentle tone of her voice, the way she listened so intently. It was a subtle shift, but it was there—a growing admiration that went beyond professional respect.

Later that evening, Jun couldn't shake the thoughts of Da-Rae from his mind. He sat on his bed, staring at his sketchpad, the pencil in his hand hovering over the blank page. He began to sketch, almost unconsciously, capturing her features with each stroke. Her kind eyes, her compassionate smile, the way her hair framed her face. The drawing came to life before him, and as he finished, he realized with a start what he had done.

He had drawn Da-Rae.

The realization hit him like a wave. He admired her, respected her, but this... this felt different. It was deeper, more personal. He set the sketchpad aside, his thoughts a whirl of confusion and curiosity.

The next day, Jun found himself in the garden, hoping the fresh air would clear his mind. Soo-Jin joined him, her presence a welcome comfort.

"You seem lost in thought," she observed, sitting down beside him. "Everything okay?"Jun sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I think... I think I'm starting to have feelings for someone. Someone I shouldn't."

Soo-Jin looked at him with concern. "Who?"

"Da-Rae," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "She's been my therapist, my guide through all of this. But lately, I've been seeing her differently. And it's confusing."

Soo-Jin was quiet for a moment, her expression thoughtful. "It's not uncommon to develop feelings for someone who's helped you through tough times. But it's important to remember the boundaries of that relationship."

"I know," Jun said, frustration creeping into his voice. "But it's hard to separate those feelings. She's been so kind, so understanding. I can't help but admire her."

"Maybe it's a sign that you're ready to connect with others on a deeper level," Soo-Jin suggested gently. "But it's important to navigate these feelings carefully. Da-Rae is your therapist, and her role is to help you heal."

Jun nodded, knowing she was right. "I just don't want to ruin the progress I've made. Or complicate things."

"Take it one step at a time," Soo-Jin advised. "Focus on your healing. If these feelings persist, maybe talk to Da-Rae about them. She'll understand and help you navigate them."

Despite Soo-Jin's advice, Jun couldn't bring himself to confess his feelings to Da-Rae. Instead, he found himself growing more preoccupied with her. He paid closer attention to every word she said, every gesture she made. His sketchpad filled with drawings of her, each one more detailed than the last.

One afternoon, as Jun sat in the common area, he overheard a conversation between two nurses. They were discussing Da-Rae's upcoming engagement party. His heart sank. He had known she was engaged, but hearing it discussed so casually brought a sharp pang of jealousy and frustration.

That evening, Jun sat in his room, the sketchpad open on his lap. His latest drawing of Da-Rae stared back at him, her eyes full of warmth and kindness. He traced the lines with his finger, a sense of longing washing over him. She was so close, yet so unattainable.

He began to imagine what it would be like if she were with him instead of her fiancé. The thought consumed him, growing more intense with each passing day. He started to obsess over every detail about her, wondering what she did in her free time, what her favourite foods were, what it would be like to hold her hand, to be the one she confided in.

In their next session, Jun struggled to maintain his composure. His feelings for Da-Rae had grown stronger, more intense. He wanted to tell her, to make her see that they were meant to be together, but he knew it would jeopardize everything.

"Jun, you seem distracted today," Da-Rae observed, her voice filled with concern. "Is something bothering you?"

He shook his head, forcing a smile. "Just... a lot on my mind."

"Would you like to talk about it?" she asked gently.

Jun hesitated, the words on the tip of his tongue. But he couldn't do it. Instead, he shook his head again. "Not today. Maybe next time."

Da-Rae nodded, her expression understanding. "That's okay, Jun. We can talk whenever you're ready."

As the session ended, Jun felt a mixture of relief and frustration. He couldn't keep his feelings bottled up forever, but he also couldn't risk losing Da-Rae's support. The line between admiration and obsession was becoming dangerously thin, and Jun knew he had to find a way to navigate his emotions before they consumed him completely.

⋆˙⟡♡⚕🩺⊹ 🤍