Eternal Echoes

Chapter Thirteen: First Anniversary

Michaella finished typing the last few words of her story, a content smile on her face. She saved her work and closed her laptop, stretching her arms above her head. The city lights twinkled outside her window, a silent audience to her creative process. She poured herself another small glass of chardonnay and sipped it slowly, savouring the calmness that had settled over her.

After finishing her drink, she started her night routine. She changed into her favourite pyjamas, washed her face, and brushed her teeth. As she stood in front of the mirror, she ran a comb through her hair, her thoughts drifting to Gabrielle. She felt a pang of sadness but also a warm sense of nostalgia.

Before going to bed, Michaella opened the drawer of her nightstand and pulled the small wooden cross which Gabrielle gave her. She held it tightly in her hands. She whispered a silent prayer, asking for strength and peace. She turned off the lights and slipped under the covers, the exhaustion of the day pulling her into a deep sleep.

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The next morning, Michaella didn't want to wake up. She was in the middle of a beautiful dream, reliving their first anniversary together. It had been perfect, filled with love and joy. But reality beckoned, and with a sigh, she opened her eyes and reluctantly got out of bed.

She followed her morning routine—washing her face, brushing her teeth, and tying her hair into a loose ponytail. She brewed a cup of coffee, the rich aroma filling the kitchen and providing a small comfort. Taking her mug to her desk, she sat down, opened her laptop, and began to write.

"Michaella didn't know what to get him, and Gabrielle didn't like it when Michaella bought him something expensive. Since it was her first relationship, she did what she knew best: she created a book. She made it with her hands, and it told their love story.

When they met up at the restaurant where Gabrielle had a reservation, she got nervous, afraid that Gabrielle wouldn't like the gift. She dressed up for him, wearing a red top with matching red lipstick. She wanted to look pretty for him. When she saw him, she ran to him and hugged him tightly.

'Hi, love,' he said, handing her a rose with something small attached to it. When she opened it, she found a Christmas ornament, but not just any ornament—it was a smiling avocado.

'It's beautiful,' she said, falling in love with it instantly.

'I know it's simple, and we agreed on getting simple gifts,' he explained nervously. 'I know how much you love Christmas and how much you love avocados, so I got you both in one. Since it's Christmas in two weeks, I thought you could hang it on the tree. I hope you like it.'

Michaella jumped on him and hugged him like her life depended on it. 'I love it, baby. I love it. You didn't have to, it's beautiful. Thank you. I love you, Gabrielle.' She kissed him, and then it was her turn to get nervous. 'So, it's my turn. I didn't know what to get you, and I know it's not much. It's hand-crafted—I did it—but I hope you like it.' She handed him the bag, and he opened it to find the book. Of course, he loved it.

'This is one of the best gifts I've ever received,' he said, looking deeply into her eyes.

He took her hand, and they entered the restaurant, called Indalosia. They ordered cocktails and shots, talking, flirting, and dreaming about their future together. It was a night to celebrate their love, a night to remember and cherish."

Michaella paused, looking at the screen. She got up and walked to the box where she kept everything Gabrielle had given her. She opened it and found the ornament. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she held it.

"I will never forget him," she whispered. "Ah, Gabrielle, moving on without you feels unfaithful. I miss you."

She clutched the ornament to her chest, allowing herself a moment of grief before returning to her desk. The pain of loss was still there, but so was the love that would never fade.

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My heart is breaking.

What do you guys think?