HEALING MIRRORS

7

Horror crept into my thoughts - was he truly genuine or harboring ill intentions? The darkness of the surroundings and his affluent appearance intensified my hesitation.

Despite the pain in my knee and ankle, I declined, opting to brave the darkness alone. "I understand it's hard to trust a stranger, but you can't walk. Let me be honored to help you, beautiful. It's dangerous here, and with no streetlights tonight, this place will be deserted."

In the dimness, encircled by trees, all establishments closed due to the relentless rain. "I won't betray your trust," he assured me.

Reluctantly, I accepted his hand, and he led me to his car, ensuring my door was closed before settling into his seat. He offered his jacket for comfort; I hesitated, fearing it would get wet in the heavy rain. Despite my refusal, he insisted, eventually putting on his jacket. He switched on the heater, enveloping us in a cocoon of comfort in the car.

Finally, a sense of ease surrounded us, and a silence settled, gradually turning awkward.

Summoning courage, I decided to break the silence and initiated a conversation. "I apologize for my foolishness; I was really dumb for not noticing. Thank you so much for everything you've done and are doing; I'm sincerely thankful," I concluded, my gaze fixed on the road. In my concern, I assumed he found me annoying. "I'm sorry if I've irritated you; please forgive me," I said, meeting his gaze. Lost in his features, I didn't realize he was looking back at me.

"No need to apologize," he said, his voice filled with compassion. "I understand that you were trying to run and ended up injuring your knee and ankle. There's no need to be sad. It's okay to not be okay." He smiled warmly at me, and I felt my cheeks flush with a blend of chagrin .

Suddenly, he pulled the car to a stop, and I turned to see him getting out of the car. Confusion clouded my mind as I watched him.

The streetlights cast a gentle glow on his face as he walked back towards the car, and I couldn't help but wonder about his intentions. Was this a gesture of kindness, or was there something more behind it?

After a minute, he opened the car door, and my eyes widened at the sight of the flowers in his hands. I was shocked. Why would he buy flowers for me? I couldn't comprehend it.

A sad smile tugged at my lips as I turned to look out the window. Maybe he bought these flowers for his girlfriend or lover, or perhaps for his mom.

The rain pattered softly against the window, adding to the melancholic atmosphere inside the car.

"What's wrong? Don't you love these flowers?" His words snapped me back to reality.

I couldn't help but blurt out in surprise, "You bought these flowers for me?"

"Yes, I bought these for you," he replied with a smile. "You kicked and smashed them mercilessly under your feet, and I didn't understand why. Nevertheless, I wanted to make things right. Also, here's your food. Consider it as compensation for the food that got scattered on the road."

His unexpected kindness left me speechless, a melancholic chuckle slipped from my lips, accompanied by the sting of unshed tears. In that moment of anger, I had been blind to the impact of my actions. How could he show such kindness? His gesture went beyond the flowers; he also brought me food. The swell of gratitude was tinged with a deep notion of unworthiness. His compassion and generosity left me humbled, vowing silently to be more mindful in the future.

As I took the flowers and the food, feeling undeserving of his generosity. His understanding and forgiveness were more than I deserved.

"I was on a solo date, and it went horribly wrong," I confessed, the sadness evident in my voice. "Nothing good ever happens to me. I feel like I'm good for nothing." I lowered my head in sadness and turned my gaze towards the window.

I heard him let out a soft chuckle in response to my words. His amusement only made me more despondent. I couldn't comprehend why he found my statement amusing.

Emotions became too heavy to bear, and before I knew it, exhaustion took over me, and I drifted into a deep slumber.