Finding you

Chapter 3

The next morning, I wake up to the sound of my alarm. It's six o'clock again. I sit up in bed and stretch. The tension from yesterday still lingers. I get up, open my curtains, and let the morning light in. The sun is just rising, casting a bright glow between the buildings. It seems like it's going to be a beautiful day. I walk to the bathroom to get ready for the day. After brushing my teeth and taking a quick shower, I dress in a casual yet professional outfit. As I start my coffee maker, I think about how the rest of the day will unfold.

My thoughts drift back to Ellie's proposal. Paris. A dream city for many, but the thought of leaving for two years remains overwhelming. I take a sip of my coffee and decide to discuss it with my family. They know me best, and their opinion will certainly help me make an informed decision. Before I leave, I prepare a simple breakfast. A bowl of oatmeal with some fresh fruit. As I eat, I take the time to scroll through my social media and catch up on some news. The world outside my apartment seems distant, yet so close through technology.

After breakfast, I pack my bag and leave my apartment. I walk down the stairs and greet a neighbor who is just coming outside. It's cool outside with a gentle breeze blowing. I cross the street to the bus stop. The bus arrives right on time. As I board, I see some familiar faces of fellow passengers who take the same route daily. I take a seat by the window and put in my earphones to listen to my favorite playlist. The rhythm of the music helps me organize my thoughts.

After a short ride, I get off at my workplace. The marketing agency looks exactly as it did yesterday. The bright pink sign saying 'Fashion Boutique' catches my eye. I take the elevator to the fifth floor, where my office is. On my way in, I pass by the large window in the hallway that overlooks the city. The morning sun illuminates the hallway, casting a warm glow over everything. My colleague Louise greets me enthusiastically at the entrance to our office.

"Good morning, June! Have you thought more about the proposal?" she asks directly. I smile and say, "Yes, I've been thinking about it a lot. It's such a big decision. I also want to talk to my family about it." Louise nods understandingly. "That's a good idea. It's not something you decide lightly." We get to work, and time flies by. I'm focused on wrapping up an important project. By lunchtime, Louise and I are ready for a break. We decide to go to our usual spot in the cafeteria. It's busier than usual, but we manage to find a table by the window.

"What do you think your family will say?" Louise asks as she eats her salad. "I think they'll support me, but I also know they'll miss me. It's a big change for all of us," I reply. Louise nods in agreement. "It's definitely an adventure, but I'm sure you'll do great if you decide to go."

After lunch, I return to my office to continue working. The rest of the afternoon passes quickly, and before I know it, it's time to go home. I gather my things, say goodbye to my colleagues, and board the bus again heading home. When I get home, I decide to call my parents. I sit on the couch with a cup of tea and dial their number. After a few rings, I hear my mother's familiar voice on the other end of the line.

"Hey, Mom! How are you?" I ask. "Good, sweetheart! How about you?" "I'm good too. I have something important to discuss with you both. Do you have time for a video call tonight?" My mom sounds curious. "Of course, we look forward to it. See you tonight!"

Evening falls, and I prepare for the conversation with my parents. The tension of the day gives way to a sense of calm. I set up my laptop on the coffee table and start the video call. After a few seconds, the familiar faces of my parents appear on the screen. "Hey sweetheart! What's going on?" my father asks. I take a deep breath and begin telling them about Ellie's proposal and the opportunity to move to Paris for two years. My parents listen attentively, without interrupting me.

"That sounds like a wonderful opportunity, June," my mother finally says. "But we also understand it's a big step. What do you think?" "I'm not sure, Mom. Working in Paris is a dream, but two years is a long time. I would miss all of you so much," I reply. My father nods in agreement. "We would miss you too, but we want you to be happy and follow your dreams. Think carefully about what you want and what makes you happy."

After a long conversation and much good advice, I feel relieved. My parents have not only supported me but also helped me organize my thoughts. I promise them that I will think about it carefully, and we end the call with a warm goodbye.

That night, I lie in bed again, but this time I feel calmer. I know I still have plenty of time to make a decision, and I am determined to make the right choice, whatever it may be. With these thoughts in mind, I fall into a deep, restful sleep.