Undying Love: Maria the Orphan

I woke up unusually early today. Perhaps it was my subconscious reminding me of the meeting, ensuring I wouldn't forget. How could I? My thoughts were entirely consumed by it. I jumped out of bed like a bolt of lightning and headed to the bathroom, washing my face quickly before brushing my hair. 

I went downstairs for breakfast, but before finishing, I rushed to my wardrobe to pick an outfit, ignoring my mother's calls and scolding. Inside, I found numerous dresses waiting for an occasion like this. I scanned them all before choosing my favorite one—a black dress adorned with flowers. I put it on, applied light makeup, and sprayed on my usual perfume. 

I spent a long time checking my reflection, wanting to look more beautiful than ever before. I wished Livia were here to tell me how I looked. In the end, I convinced myself that my choice was perfect. I grabbed my purse, slipped into mid-heeled shoes that complemented my outfit, and headed out. 

I bid farewell to my mother and Sophie, making my way to work as usual. Upon arriving at my office, I greeted my colleagues and then immersed myself in my tasks, though my thoughts were elsewhere—on Jack and our first meeting. What would it be like? 

The morning hours crawled by until Livia showed up, as usual, for our lunch break. She was stunned to see me so impeccably dressed. Without waiting for her to ask, I told her I had a date with Jack. She was thrilled for me and wished she could meet her own Prince Charming to experience moments like mine. 

When it was time to leave, I tidied up my desk, grabbed my bag, and paused at the balcony before heading out. Oh my goodness, he was already there—waiting for me at the café across the street. I adjusted my outfit, fixed my hair and lipstick, and walked past Livia, who accompanied me until I ran right into him. 

His cologne enveloped me even before he got close enough for a handshake. He extended his hand with a broad smile, and I introduced him to my friend Livia. We exchanged a few words before she left us, wishing us a wonderful evening. 

We walked in silence for a while, but the quiet spoke volumes about the emotions stirring within us. Our steps led us to a cozy café. I was wearing a coat, which he kindly took off and hung on the rack before we sat at a small round table. His gaze was fixed on me, and I could feel a blush creeping up my cheeks. 

We glanced at the menu, and I chose chocolate ice cream. He ordered the same—perhaps as a gesture of courtesy. We talked about everything and nothing, trying to learn more about each other's personalities. At some point, our hands intertwined unconsciously, staying that way for a long while. A warmth spread through me as he gazed at me dreamily. I wished those beautiful moments could last forever, but time is unforgiving—it slipped away unnoticed. 

I reminded him that I was running late and needed to return home. He didn't protest. We gathered our things and left the café, only to find it pouring rain outside. Fortunately, he had an umbrella. We walked close, side by side, until we reached my house. 

He pulled me into his arms, holding me close before planting a long kiss on my lips. In that moment, I felt like a woman, and I knew he was the one I had been searching for. I bid him farewell, still in a state of bliss. 

That night, I went to bed early, replaying every detail of this remarkable day. It was a memory I was sure would stay with me forever. Jack was no longer a stranger; he was my soul now. He had shared his story with me—his childhood, his life until now. An American businessman with his own company, he had come here for a vacation. Fate brought him to me, and his life changed forever when he fell in love with me.