Hello Michael,
I have had experiences with both demons and angels in the course of my life, so I think I may be able to shed some light on this. I only speak from my limited experience, so please don’t take what I say as an exact analogue to your situation. First, the state of grace you experience after you receive absolution and finish your penance is something truly special. I sometimes liken it to being squeaky clean and shiny. It is a transition from death and sin to new life and grace. The transition is sometimes jarring and can give us a peek into the spiritual realm which lies beyond our immediate physical perception.
It could very well be your guardian angel. If it is, then it is not that it suddenly appears, but more like you can finally sense it. It is always there. You can talk to it if you want. Don’t expect a response, though. They aren’t normally a talkative bunch, but they will hear you and understand.
It also could be a demon. I am not saying this to scare you. I am simply stating the possibility. When someone turns away from their temptations the sometimes have a tendency to glare and leer and sneer and sulk. Yes, demons sulk. I’ve seen it happen. Your mortal sins were their shiny new toy and you just took it away from them with your repentance and God’s forgiveness. If it is a demon sneering at you, take it as a sign of strength and hope. You bested them at their game and turned back to God. With God’s help you were stronger than the demon. Always depend upon this strength of God when confronting the demonic. None can stand against our Lord.
I will be praying for you.
God bless,
Br. Ben, CRM