Chapter 7
The dawn was breaking, casting a soft, golden glow across the horizon. I sat alone on the shore, my knees pulled up to my chest, my gaze lost in the endless expanse of the sea. The waves lapped gently against my bare feet, the cool water offering a stark contrast to the warmth of the early morning sun.
"Eli," I whispered, my voice barely audible over the sound of the waves.
My heart ached at the mere mention of her name. We had shared a bond, a connection that was as deep as the ocean before.
A single tear trickled down my cheek, followed by another, and another. I didn't bother to wipe them away.
"Why did you have to put me in this situation, Eli?" I asked in the empty air, my voice choked with emotion.
"We were supposed to have a vacation together," I added.
At this moment, I remembered her laugh, her warm embrace, and the way she would look at me. I missed her, I missed our bond, and I missed the feeling of being loved and cared for.
"But you're not here," I said, my voice barely a whisper.
"And I'm here, alone." I let out a soft sob, my shoulders shaking with the force of my grief. The tears flowed freely now, each one a testament to the love I still held for Eli.
As the sun rose higher in the sky, I remained on the shore, my tears mingling with the salt water. I was alone, but in my heart, Eli was with me. And for now, that was enough.
My mind wandered to where Eli could be right now when I heard someone speak to me behind.
"Hey, stranger," she said softly, her voice carrying a mix of empathy and warmth.
"Mind if I join you?" concern etched across her face.
I smiled, my tear-streaked face revealing a mix of surprise and confusion. This is the same person I met yesterday. I sniffled and nodded, gesturing for her to take a seat beside me.
She settled down next to me, our shoulders almost touching. I gave her a moment to collect herself, and then she spoke again.
"I couldn't help but notice that you're here alone again. Is everything alright?" she asked gently.
I sighed, my voice trembling with sadness.
"It's Eli," I began, my voice barely above a whisper.
"I can't stop thinking about her. Our friendship, our memories... it's all too much," I said.
She nodded understandingly, her gaze fixed on the horizon.
"I know exactly what you're going through, stranger, and I do know that the pain can be overwhelming, but sometimes talking about it can help," she said.
I looked at her, my eyes searching for comfort.
"I just miss her so much. It feels like a part of me is missing," I replied.
She reached out and gently placed her hand on my shoulder, offering me a comforting touch.
"I can't promise that the pain will go away overnight, but maybe, just maybe, talking about it and sharing your feelings can help ease the burden," she said.
I took a deep breath, my tears slowly subsiding.
"Thank you. It means a lot to have someone to talk to even though we didn't know each other's names," I said.
She smiled softly, her eyes filled with empathy.
"Anytime, stranger. Remember, you're not alone in this. We'll get through it together," she said, smirking.
