Leaving Daniel behind at the airport had been one of the hardest moments of Emma’s life. She had watched him walk away, the weight of their past and the uncertainty of the future hanging heavy in the air. As she walked back to her cab, tears had blurred her vision, and she had struggled to hold herself together. The cab ride back to her temporary apartment had been a blur of conflicting emotions—grief, anger, and a deep, aching loneliness.The days that followed were a whirlwind of new beginnings. Emma had been fortunate to start her role as a resident in internal medicine at St. Vincent Hospital in Nashville. Thanks to a new law in Tennessee, international medical graduates like herself could begin directly as residents rather than starting from the bottom of the medical hierarchy. This law was a recent change that allowed her to bypass the traditional residency program after a two-year trial period, during which her performance would determine her future in the state’s medical field
Emma stepped off the plane and took a deep breath, savoring the familiar air of Istanbul. The month she had spent in the USA had been both exhilarating and exhausting, as she had navigated her new role as a resident in internal medicine at St. Vincent Hospital and found a good preschool for Lily. The transition had been challenging, but she was now settled into her new life, with her work and her daughter’s future in Tennessee carefully arranged.As she walked through the airport, her heart was heavy with anticipation. She had decided it was time to reach out to Daniel, hoping to find a way to discuss Lily’s future. She dialed his number, her fingers trembling slightly as she held the phone to her ear. The line rang once, twice, and then Daniel’s voice came through, a mixture of surprise and joy.“Emma? Is that you?”His voice, filled with a warmth that Emma had missed, made her heart ache. “Yes, it’s me. I’m back in Istanbul. I’d like to meet you if you’re free.”Daniel paused for a
Daniel’s POV I paced around my apartment, my thoughts in turmoil after Emma’s revelation. She had come back only to take Lily away, and the loneliness gnawed at me. I had spoken to Emma, my once best friend and lover, but her mind was set on forging separate paths. I was sick of hearing it, angry at her for wanting to take Lily. She didn’t have the right. She belonged to me. And so did Lily. Somehow, I found myself standing in front of Emma’s parents’ house. I knocked, my heart pounding in my chest. The door opened, and Emma’s mother, Karen, appeared, surprise evident on her face. “It’s not your typical day to come see Lily. What are you doing here?” she asked. “Did you know Emma is taking Lily with her?” I demanded, my voice tight with anger. Karen looked at me calmly. “What’s so unusual about that? She is her mother, and Lily is supposed to be raised by her. I’m proud of Emma for her decision.” I clenched my fists, frustration boiling over. “Why are you so against me? You
After the emotionally charged conversation with Daniel, Emma knew she had to focus on creating a stable life for herself and Lily in Tennessee. The thought of Daniel's impending move to the USA, while daunting, gave her a glimmer of hope that he would still be a part of Lily's life. Determined not to lose his daughter, Daniel began making preparations to move his work to the USA. As a portfolio manager, he sought opportunities in the financial sector connected to the healthcare industry. Through his network, Daniel discovered a position as a Financial Analyst at a prominent hospital in Nashville. His role would involve managing the hospital’s investment portfolio, optimizing financial strategies, and ensuring the institution's fiscal health. The job allowed him to leverage his expertise while being close to Emma and Lily. Emma returned to Tennessee with Lily, and they both began adjusting to their new life. The transition was challenging but ultimately rewarding. Lily adapted quick
Emma walked into the expensive café that Michael had picked for their lunch break, feeling a bit out of place among the elegant décor and sophisticated clientele. She spotted Michael at a corner table, looking effortlessly at ease. He stood up and smiled warmly as she approached."Emma, glad you could make it," he said, pulling out a chair for her."Thanks, Michael. This place is... fancy," she replied, taking her seat and glancing around.Michael chuckled. "I thought it would be nice to have a change of scenery. Besides, the food here is fantastic."As they settled into their seats and placed their orders, Michael began to share more about himself. "I chose to be a neurosurgeon because of a personal experience. A friend of mine was diagnosed with an oligodendroglioma, a rare type of brain tumor with a very low survival rate. It was devastating."Emma's eyes widened. "Wow, that's intense. How did you handle it?"Michael smiled softly. "Thanks to my medical knowledge and my connections
Emma felt the usual surge of adrenaline as she stepped into the internal medicine department. Today, she was responsible for a new patient, a 25-year-old man admitted with a preliminary diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). His neurological symptoms had worsened overnight, and Emma felt a knot of concern tightening in her stomach as she reviewed his charts.Her concerns were confirmed when the patient's CT and MRI scans showed acute cerebral hemorrhage. Emma immediately called for an emergent neurosurgery consultation.Michael arrived in the emergency room with his usual calm demeanor, quickly assessing the situation. "We need to get him to surgery, now," he said, looking directly at Emma. She nodded, appreciating his decisiveness.The surgery was intense, but Michael’s skillful hands worked with precision. Emma watched from the observation room, her admiration for Michael growing with each passing moment. After several grueling hours, the surgery was a success. Howe
Emma was in her office, engrossed in patient charts when her phone buzzed. Seeing Daniel's name on the screen, she sighed and answered.“Hi, Daniel,” she said, trying to keep her voice steady.“Hey, Emma. I wanted to let you know that everything is set for my move. I’ll be arriving next week,” Daniel informed her.Emma's heart skipped a beat. She had mixed feelings about Daniel moving to the US. It meant Lily would get to see her father more often, but it also meant complications in her life. “Okay, thanks for letting me know,” she replied.As she ended the call, she didn’t notice Michael standing just outside her office door, having overheard enough to understand the gist of the conversation. Sensing an opportunity, he decided to act quickly. He knocked softly and entered.“Hey, you,” he greeted, his voice warm. Before she could respond, he moved behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, kissing her neck gently.Emma tensed at first, but Michael’s touch was soothing. “Michael
The morning sun filtered through the curtains as Emma awoke to a warm “Good morning” from Michael. They shared a quiet breakfast together, filled with light conversation and lingering glances. Despite the comfort of his presence, Emma's mind was already on the day ahead and the responsibilities waiting for her.After breakfast, Michael drove her home so she could check on Lily and take her to preschool. As they pulled up to her house, Emma turned to him, feeling a mix of gratitude and anxiety.“Thank you for last night,” she said softly. “And for this morning.”Michael smiled. “Anytime, Emma. You know I’m here for you.”Emma nodded, a small smile on her lips, but her thoughts were already on Lily. Inside, she found her daughter playing with her toys.“Hey sweetie, how about we play your favorite game before we head to preschool?” Emma knelt down to Lily’s level.Lily’s eyes lit up. “Really, Mommy? Can we play tea party?”“Absolutely,” Emma replied, setting up the tiny tea set on the l
Writing "His Unfinished Love Story" was like talking to a friend for me. It came from a place where I was struggling with family stuff, and I didn't really have anyone to open up to—no best friends or unbiased family members. Counseling wasn't my thing, so I poured it all into this book instead. This story is a mix of real-life vibes and make-believe, exploring all kinds of love—whether it’s the love for a parent, a sibling, a friend, or even the complicated, sometimes obsessive kind. What I've realized is that no type of love is superior; they all just... are. And while love can push us to do crazy things, it's not a free pass to mess up and just expect forgiveness. That kind of forgiveness, the kind that really matters, comes from a higher place. I hope my book helps you sort out your own feelings, find some peace, or maybe even close a chapter that's been open too long. Thanks for diving into this journey with me. Here's to finding your peace, whatever that looks like.
**David’d POV** I stand there, by Scarlet’s resting place, with the familiar weight of white roses in my hands—her favorite. It’s a clear morning, the cemetery dappled with sunlight, peaceful and introspective. As I place the flowers down, I can’t help but feel a blend of solace and sorrow, her diary's words echoing in my mind. “Scarlet,” I start, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. “I’ve read every page you left behind. It’s like having a part of you still here with me, and I’m grateful for that. You always had a way of making the world a bit brighter, even in writing.” I pause, taking a breath as I look around, feeling her presence. “You know, Emma and Daniel are back together. After everything, they’ve found their way back to each other. You worried about them, I know. But they’re happy, truly. Daniel once told me that without her, he’d be lost... an unfinished love story. Well, they’ve got their happy ending now.” My voice falters as I touch the cold stone, a part o
**Daniel’s POV** This morning, I can barely stifle my laughter as Lily, almost six and full of sass, unleashes a spectacular tantrum over her cereal. She’s just found out we got married without her and took a sneaky honeymoon to Santorini. “You guys are the worst secret keepers ever!” she declares, pouting. I try to explain. “Sweetie, you had school, remember? And honestly, it was just a quick vow exchange—super boring, no big party or anything.” She’s not buying it. “But I could’ve skipped school! You think I wanted to do math instead of going to a beach?” Emma jumps in, grinning. “Trust me, you wouldn’t have enjoyed Santorini. We ended up talking to the police more than we swam!” “Yeah, you should thank us. It was a disaster!” I add, chuckling. Lily's not amused. She crosses her arms. “Next time, I’m coming. No more vacations without me.” Emma and I exchange a look, suppressing our laughter as we nod in surrender. “Deal,” we chorus. I hustle to get Lily ready for scho
**David’s POV**Here in my New York apartment, as the relentless city rain echoes my mood, I find myself repeatedly drawn to the old, worn pages of Scarlet’s diary. This morning, the echoes of last night's indulgence weigh heavy, a migraine pulsing in the background as I numb it with the usual analgesic. But the diary demands attention once again.I flip to the last entry, a letter penned for me, her "Bumblebee," written in a moment of profound solitude and clarity.---**Scarlet’s Letter to me:**My dear Bumblebee,As I write this, sitting in the quiet of my unwanted sanctuary, the light of hope is dim, nearly extinguished. Yet there's a strange peace in knowing you’re out there, free from the burden of me. These long years have granted me too much time for reflection, and a painful truth has emerged: I loved you, David. It was never just brotherly love or friendship; it was a calm, steady love that I mistook for mere companionship while I allowed myself to be consumed by Michael's t
**Daniel’s POV** *At the police car* The first streaks of dawn had barely lit up the horizon when Emma and I, handcuffed in the back of a Greek police car, were driving towards the station. The situation was, admittedly, absurd, and Emma's reaction was equally dramatic. "Why, Daniel? Why is every crazy adventure with you ending up with the police?" Emma half-yelled, half-laughed, her annoyance fighting with amusement. "Oh, come on, love. We could charm our way out. I'll start praising their baklava and yoghurt—say it's all Greek, not Turkish!" I teased, trying to lighten the mood. "That's your plan? Really?" Emma was not amused. “Maybe I could add some sugarcoating to their weird alphabet, too?” I kept teasing. "We've been married less than a week, and you're already pushing for an annulment, huh?" "Technically, it'd be called an annulment, yes," I chuckled, winking at her. She lunged at me, stopped only by the seatbelt, while the police officer in the front warned
**Daniel’s POV** Driving Emma straight to my apartment after the marriage ceremony, I can't help but tease her about the neatly arranged belongings all around. She looks around, her confusion melting into a surprised smile when I explain, "I’ve been planning this day with my lovely in-laws for 2 months now." "Why isn’t Lily here then?" she asks, a hint of worry in her tone. I can barely keep the grin off my face as I lean in, whispering the next surprise. "Because, my love, we’re jetting off for a week abroad for our honeymoon." Emma's eyes widen, a mix of excitement and concern dancing in them. "But I need to take annual leave from the hospital," she counters, her voice tinged with anxiety. I put on a sad face, playing up my disappointment. "How can you not trust me with my meticulously arranged plans?" I complain, only half-joking. Her gasp when I tell her everything's been handled is absolutely worth it. "And where exactly are we going?" she probes, curiosity overtaking
**Emma’s POV***A month later*The thrill of feeling like my old self was palpable as I walked through the familiar scenic route of “the plateau” of my high school. It felt like stepping back into a life I'd put on pause, now ready to play at full volume. My phone buzzed, breaking my reverie. It was Dr. Patel, my old boss, and the last person I expected to call me after the way I'd left things."Emma, I've got a proposition for you," Dr. Patel's voice was as brisk and businesslike as ever. "How would you feel about coming back as an endocrine fellow?""But... after everything?" I asked, my brow furrowing."Let's just say I've made some calls. Your record's clear and, frankly, we need you. Are you up for it?" There was a hopeful note in her voice that warmed me a little."Okay, what do I need to do?" My heart started to race with excitement."There’s the Subspecialty Equivalency Examination next month. Pass that, and I’ll talk to the CMO about getting you a spot," she explained."Coun
**Emma’s POV**The sunlight was already high in the sky by the time I managed to peel my eyes open. The room was silent, save for the distant hum of the city outside. I stretched lazily, enjoying the rare luxury of a slow morning, but the sound of the doorbell sliced through the tranquility. Puzzled, I slid out of bed and shuffled toward the sound, my thoughts still tangled in the threads of sleep.Peeking around the corner, I saw Daniel chatting with my mom in hushed tones, the only word I could hear was “passport.” His back was to me, but I could tell by the way he was gesturing that he was excited about something."What's going on?" I asked, rubbing my eyes as I approached.Daniel turned with a start, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Morning, sleepyhead! Just sorting out some paperwork with your mom. Nothing to worry about," he winked, a twinkle in his eye.My mom, ever the conspirator, gave me a knowing look but kept her lips sealed. "Why don't you get ready, dear? Dani
**Emma’s POV**As the wheels of the plane touch down in Istanbul, a wave of nostalgia and relief washes over me. The familiar scent of the sea mingled with the bustling city life fills my lungs, grounding me. "I'm home," I whisper to myself, my heart swelling with a peace I haven't felt in months.The airport is bustling as always, but my focus narrows to the figures of my parents in the distance. As we make our way through the crowd, I spot Lily breaking free from my mother's embrace and sprinting towards me with open arms. "Mommy!" her voice echoes over the chatter, a sweet sound I've missed dearly.I drop to my knees just in time to catch her in a tight hug, lifting her into the air as she giggles. "I missed you so much, little bug," I murmur into her hair."Missed you more," she replies, squeezing me tighter. My parents join us, their faces lined with relief and joy. "Welcome home, Emma," my dad says, his voice thick with emotion as he pulls me into a hug."Did you bring me anyth