Undying Love: Maria the Orphan

The day passed slowly; I was eager for it to end and for the night to come, hoping Jack would call me. Perhaps he was tired yesterday from traveling or occupied with things I don't know about. As Sophie always says, "The absent has their excuses."

I spent the day following the same routine. I no longer wanted to look out from the balcony during work; it reminded me of Jack when he used to sit there, waiting for me. Everything is gone now, and all I have left are memories to live by.

We finished work and got ready to leave. Afterward, I went straight to Livia, who was waiting for me with her umbrella in hand, as it was raining heavily. It reminded me of the day Jack surprised me with his umbrella too. That day was so special to me; I lived some of the most beautiful moments then.

Livia noticed my sadness and silence, so she tried to cheer me up, suggesting we visit one of the stores that had just stocked the latest clothes. However, she was met with my apathy, so she tried again, saying:

"Snow White, let's go shopping. They have some stunning dresses that I'm sure you'll love, dear."

I replied, "Livia, I'm not in the mood. Let's leave it for another day. Don't you think the weather isn't ideal for strolling around?"

Livia insisted, saying, "But you used to love this! Please, don't let your sadness linger. Live your moments and try to forget what might destroy your spirit."

At that, I asked her, overwhelmed by sorrow, "Alright, but how can I forget someone who has taken over my heart?"

She replied, "Let me tell you something, and take it as a lesson in life. When a person lets go of what they desire and stops obsessing over it, they will eventually get it. Life often flows against our current and wishes."

I said to her anxiously, "Maybe you're right, but what worries me is the possibility that something happened to Jack, and I don't know about it. I just want to make sure he's okay."

Livia reassured me, saying, "He will call you, Snow White, sooner or later, as long as he loves you."

I replied, "I hope so, from the bottom of my heart. I can't live without him; he's become the air I breathe."

We kept talking, speculating about Jack's absence, trying to come up with excuses for it until we arrived at my house. Livia bid me goodbye, wishing me peace and happiness. She is a wonderful friend, always there for me in tough times, supporting me with genuine sincerity and kindness.

I went inside and found my mother and Sophie at the table, sipping coffee.

I remembered Jack when he used to drink coffee with us. Why does everything, every event, every place, remind me of him? I want my memory to be free. I feel as though I'm chained by a flood of memories that have taken root in me and refuse to let me go. They play before me like a film, amplifying my suffering. How I wish those moments could return, or that I could relive them once more!

I spoke, addressing Sophie and my mother:

"Mom, Sophie, I missed you both. How are you?"

My mother replied, "We're fine, my dear, as long as you are. I have some news for you that will surely make you happy."

I jumped from my seat, urging her to tell me.

"What is it? Is it from Jack?"

She answered, "Not from Jack, Snow White, but from Alfredo. He asked about us and said he'd visit during his next vacation. He misses us."

I replied, with sadness returning to my heart, "I'm glad he's coming. At last, he remembered he has family. I thought you'd tell me something about Jack."

My mother then said, "Don't be sad. He'll call you today, perhaps he was just tired from his travels yesterday."

I responded with hope, "I wish so. Anyway, have a good night, both of you. I'll go upstairs to rest."

I kissed them and went to my room. I lay down on my bed, the only thing that truly understands the pain I carry now. It knows my moments of joy and sadness, silently embracing me to soothe the wounds life has inflicted upon me.

I picked up my lyre and began playing my father's tune—a melody I always turned to in moments of sadness. Alone with my lyre, I found some solace.

I kept waiting, my eyes on my phone, hoping to hear it ring, but in vain. My hopes were dashed. How could his heart allow him to forget me? To forget the beautiful moments we shared? What happened to his promise to me? Just words blown away by the wind.

I could no longer bear this deadly wait. It felt like I was begging for a call from him. Curse this love that strips us of our dignity and makes us weak. I will try to strengthen my character so I don't hurt myself further.

I turned off the lights, intending to sleep, when I heard a knock on the door.

It was my mother. She must have sensed my tension and sadness and wanted to check on me. She said:

"My little girl, why aren't you asleep yet? Don't overthink. If Jack loves you, he'll come looking for you."

I replied, a lump in my throat, "Yes, Mom, you're right. I'll try to forget about it and live my life as I used to. I'm tired of this suffering; nothing brings me joy anymore. I used to be so full of life and hope."

My mother comforted me, saying, "Life is still ahead of you. There are many people you'll meet. Some may hurt you today, but others will bring you happiness tomorrow. So don't give up. Keep trying until you achieve your happiness."

She stayed with me, consoling and encouraging me. Her words were logical and true, something I should strive to follow. But my emotions overpower me. I know I can't stop loving Jack; he has taken over my heart, and it's impossible for me to love anyone else.

I fell asleep, my mind with him. I wished I could know the reason for his absence, yet at the same time, I feared that something bad had happened to him. But surely, time will reveal what I cannot discover now.