A Journey Through Love and Loss

Mary Me, Again

Avery's POV

Tyler and I dressed casually, ready for a more relaxed day. This was our moment just the two of us, making memories before the inevitable hospital stay later in the evening. Bukas na ang surgery ko.

Tyler took my hand as we stepped out into the bustling streets of New York. Our destination was DUMBO, Brooklyn, a picturesque neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, artsy vibe, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

We took the subway to Brooklyn, and the ride was filled with quiet anticipation. Tyler's hand remained firmly in mine, a silent reminder of his unwavering support.

Arriving at DUMBO, I was immediately captivated by the charm of the area. The East River sparkled under the morning sun, and the iconic Manhattan Bridge loomed majestically in the background. The atmosphere was lively yet serene, a perfect contrast to the hectic days we'd spent exploring the city.

We strolled along the waterfront, taking in the breathtaking views. Tyler pointed out various landmarks, sharing tidbits of history and interesting facts. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I found myself getting lost in the moment, forgetting the looming surgery for a while.

"Look, Avery," Tyler said, guiding me to a spot where the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges framed the skyline perfectly. "Isn't this view incredible?"

I nodded, my heart swelling with a mix of emotions. "It's beautiful, Tyler. Thank you for bringing me here."

He smiled, squeezing my hand. "I wanted to make today special for you. Just us, enjoying the city."

As we continued our walk, we stumbled upon Jane's Carousel, an enchanting vintage merry-go-round nestled by the river. Tyler's eyes lit up, and he pulled me toward it.

"Let's take a ride," he suggested, his boyish excitement infectious.

We bought tickets and climbed onto the carousel. The whimsical music played as the carousel began to turn, and I couldn't help but laugh as we rode the colorful horses, feeling like kids again. Tyler's laughter mingled with mine, and for a few precious minutes, the world outside ceased to exist.

After the carousel ride, we wandered into the nearby Time Out Market, a bustling food hall filled with an array of delicious offerings. The tantalizing scents of different cuisines filled the air, making it hard to choose.

"How about we try a little bit of everything?" Tyler suggested, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

I agreed, and we spent the next hour sampling various dishes like wood-fired pizza, artisanal ice cream, and gourmet sliders. Each bite was a delightful experience, a testament to the diverse culinary scene of New York.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the local shops and galleries. Tyler and I meandered through quaint boutiques, admiring handmade crafts and unique artworks. We even bought a small painting of the Brooklyn Bridge as a souvenir of our day.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves back by the waterfront, sitting on a bench and watching the boats glide by. The sun had begun its descent, casting a golden hue over the river and the city beyond.

Tyler wrapped an arm around me, pulling me close. "How are you feeling, Avery?" he asked softly, his concern evident in his eyes.

I took a deep breath, leaning my head against his shoulder. "I'm nervous, Tyler. But today has been amazing. Thank you for giving me this day."

He kissed the top of my head, his lips warm and reassuring. "We'll get through this together, Avery. You and me."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, nagpaalam muna sa akin saglit si Tyler at may nakalimutan daw siyang bilin kaya naiwan muna akong mag isa na nakaupo sa bench.