Letting Go

Emilio’s POV

***Flashback

Evelyn and I were sitting at our usual lunch spot, a quaint café with a view of the city park. We had developed a comfortable routine of meeting here, discussing business, and sometimes just chatting about life.

As we finished our meals, Evelyn looked at me with a thoughtful expression. “Emilio, there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

Curious, I set down my coffee cup. “What’s that?”

She hesitated for a moment, then smiled. “Would you like to go on a date with me? Outside of our usual business lunches, I mean.”

The question took me by surprise. I felt a mix of emotions—excitement, fear, and a pang of sadness. It had been five years since Sophia, had passed away, and I was still navigating the waters of grief.

“Evelyn, I...” I began, struggling to find the right words. “I really enjoy spending time with you, but I’m not sure if I’m ready. It’s been hard since Sophia died, and I don’t know if I’m ready to move on.. and there’s my daughter too..