One Long Flight 💙

Starting Over

Aisling entered her parent's house upon her arrival, spotting her mother in the kitchen. "Mum?"

"Aisling! I'm delighted you decided to come for a visit!" She managed a half-smile and nodded, allowing her mother to envelop her in a warm hug. Elizabeth sighed softly, brushing a strand of hair from her daughter's face. "Have you talked to him?"

Aisling shrugged, shaking her head. "I moved out almost two months ago, and he hasn't reached out. I thought he might want to fix things, but maybe it's time I consider moving forward."

Her father stepped into the kitchen, catching the conversation. "Daddy." Aisling embraced him tightly. "I think it might be best to move on, Dad." She pulled away, meeting his gaze. "Who knows, maybe I'll find someone while I'm in London."

Patrick let out a sigh, concern etched on his features. "A long-distance relationship wouldn't be easy, Aisling."

She shrugged, considering her options. "Unless I decide to move to London."

"What?!"

Aisling observed the shock on her parents' faces. "As I said, it's been two months since I moved out, and he hasn't made any effort to contact me. He's probably moved on. So, why shouldn't I?" She noted their skeptical expressions and decided to change the topic. "So, are we still on for tomorrow, Dad?"

He nodded with a grin. "For your birthday? Absolutely."

"And where, if I may ask, are we headed?"

He shrugged playfully, a twinkle in his eyes. "You'll find out."

Aisling watched him, knowing her father enjoyed surprises, unlike herself. She let out a mock groan, understanding that he wouldn't reveal anything more. "Alright, fine."

✈️

After showering and getting dressed, Aisling found her father waiting for her downstairs just after lunch the following day. "Okay, I'm ready."

He chuckled and offered his arm for her to walk ahead of him. "Let's go."

She let out a sigh, getting into the car as her father took the driver's seat. Soon enough, they pulled up to a park. "What's the plan, Dad?"

He grinned as he parked the car. "You'll see."

Aisling followed her father to the Palace on the park grounds, where they were greeted by a man upon entering.

"Ms. Delaney?"

She nodded, her attention shifting from her father to the man. "That's me."

"This way, please."

Following the man, she noticed her father not following suit. She glanced back at him, and he nodded, encouraging her to continue. With a hint of uncertainty, she carried on with the man. He led her outside to a path framed by ivy and flowers, which eventually led to a brick wall adorned with a grand iron gate. The gate opened, and she ventured inside, finding herself in a charming garden. A pathway wound its way through lavender plants and small shrubs, eventually leading her to a central fountain. There, standing with his back to her, was Chris. "Chris?"

He turned around, facing her. "Aisling. Happy birthday."

She couldn't hide her surprise, a small smile appearing. "What are you doing here?"

He gestured around him with a smile. "You mentioned a secret garden. I thought, maybe, this could be the place for us to get married."

Aisling let out a disbelieving scoff, taking a step closer to him. "We're not even together anymore, Chris."