Stranded Memories (Gabenath)

Nine

A gush of wind hits his face as Gabriel stands under a nearly bare tree. His cheeks and nose are red and so very cold. Except, his soul remains hot as he continues to fill himself with anger and bitterness. He's so many acres away from the cottage home, but he couldn't remain there after what occurred.

Gabriel admits he probably overreacted, yet every time he closes his eyes, he can see the doctor and how utterly close he was to her.

It made him feel as if his blood were boiling. But more than angry, it made Gabriel feel afraid.
Afraid that he might be losing her forever.

There's been a shearing ache in his heart since the moment he heard the doctor's love confession directed at his dear Nathalie. It's another bitter reminder of her lack of memory, but it's also a reminder of the immense appreciation she has for the doctor.

He recalls the glare of disappointment and almost resentment she gave him before she entered the cottage with their daughter. The regret he felt was instant as it shot through his entire body, and it was then when Gabriel realized the terrible mistake he had made.

His outbursts aren't making anything better. But how else could he react? It's not the same anymore, and he fears it might never be. Nathalie has never been as distant as she's been now.

He's well aware it's because of her oblivious state. However, that doesn't make him feel any better. She's never been so close, yet so unattainable. So distinguishable, yet so different.

He's losing his mind for sure.

The endless sight of branches and shriveled leaves hanging above him remind him of all the time that has transpired since the day she disappeared until now.

If only he could go back in time and mend his mistakes.

His eyes prickle with tears and his hand reaches up to grab onto a middling tree branch. Gabriel pulls it with great force, holding onto it in a tight grip. He fiddles with and when he thinks he's had enough of that bent twig, he throws it far away from him to then grab another one.

He isn't sure how much time has passed when he hears the rustling of the dry leaves on the dirt trail being continually stepped on.

"Hello", the voice of a woman sounds.

Gabriel turns around to see a woman approaching him. He's seen her before at the cottage, but never paid much attention to her. "Allow me to introduce myself," she says, "I'm Julia."

She extends her hand to him, and Gabriel wordlessly shakes it.

"Unfortunate event that happened earlier, I'm sure this must all be very difficult for you. And believe me when I tell you that I want nothing more than for Diane to recover her memory."

"I'm sorry," Gabriel says. "Why are you telling me this?" He's so obviously confused with her sudden appearance, but the woman continues talking.

"Henry is a kind man, he's caring and protective of those around him. All I can say is that it wouldn't be difficult for any woman to fall in love with him."

Gabriel's eyes go wide to her words. What is she trying to tell him?

"Are you saying-"

"Yes", Julia responds. "I think Diane has fallen in love with him. Why else would she be so reluctant to return home with you, when you're her family."

Gabriel turns around, not wanting the woman to see how vulnerable her words have made him. They've crushed him more than anything.

Could it be true? Could it be that Nathalie has fallen in love with the doctor? He doesn't know what to think.