I miss those days, miss what we were. The regret hits me like a ton of bricks, settling heavy in my chest. It’s a regret that’s been there for too long, lurking in the shadows even when I was too stubborn to acknowledge it. Finally, after another hour and a half of driving, the towering trees give
Abby The scent of mahogany and bergamot fills the air as I step into the room that was once mine—our room, really. I feel so drawn to the familiarity of it all; the embroidered curtains, the chestnut armoire that I remember picking out myself, and the plush rug that used to cushion my bare feet
“Thanks, Elsie,” I say softly. “It’s good to be back.” With that, I make my way back into the house, each step carrying a different weight, a different emotion. As I reach the top of the staircase, I hear Karl’s voice drifting from the living room, and my heart does a strange little leap. Maybe El
Abby The warm afternoon sunlight casts dappled patterns on the ground as we walk through the park, holding cardboard coffee cups in our hands. The warmth seeps through the cup, mingling with the crisp air. It’s a nice moment, bordering on something that feels almost normal. And then we stop in f
“Smells amazing in here,” Karl says as he walks in, his eyes meeting mine for a moment before landing on the pot. “Whatcha cooking?” “Spaghetti Bolognese,” I reply, stirring the pot once more. “I remember it was one of your favorites.” “Still is,” he grins, moving closer. “Need any help?” I lo
Karl The mahogany door clicks shut behind me as I step into the conference room. Members of the council, influential businessmen and entrepreneurs who hold significant power in the community, are already seated around the long table. I can feel the weight of their expectations hanging in the air
“Karl,” Gianna says once they’re gone, snapping me out of my reverie. “I think you should come to dinner tonight. We need to discuss a few more things.” I look up at her. There’s something off about her tone, something I can’t quite place. Maybe because of that, I wind up making a snap decision. “
Abby I’m seated on a lounge chair in the back lawn, soaking in the sun and the chirping of birds as a soothing backdrop. The air smells of freshly cut grass, and I’m surrounded by the vibrant colors of the garden—reds, yellows, and blues.. It’s peaceful, almost idyllic, but my mind is elsewhere.