Bus 732

Final Chapter: Always

Alina kept their promise by visiting the cabin on 73rd Street every month. It became her sanctuary, a place she retreated to whenever she needed solace or felt a deep longing for En. The cabin, with its cherished memories, provided her a refuge to relax and reconnect with the love she held in her heart.

Posy and Alina frequently visited En's grave, bringing her favorite flowers—tulips—and spending time together in front of her tombstone. They would share stories about their days and keep her memory alive, finding comfort in their ritual of remembrance and connection.

Alina regularly visited the farm, spending time with Posy, Rosa, and Sasha, who was soon to marry Bian. She made sure to celebrate special occasions with them, finding solace in their company. These moments with her friends and the celebrations they shared helped her move forward with life, all while she continued to cherish and hold onto the memories of En.

Alina embraced new hobbies and adventures she had never tried before, exploring new places and finding joy in exciting activities. Even during these moments of enjoyment, with En no longer physically by her side, she kept her in her thoughts. En's presence remained a constant in her heart, shaping her experiences and guiding her through her journey of moving forward.

Despite the celebrations, fun, and adventures that filled her days, Alina always ended up alone in an empty bed each night. In those quiet moments, her longing for En would resurface with an intensity that pierced through her distractions. Overwhelmed by her emotions, she would cry and pray, finding solace in these rituals that ultimately helped her find rest and ease her heartache before falling asleep.

The sun shone brightly as Alina approached the town's bus terminal. She moved slowly, carefully stepping inside Bus 732.

"Grandma, let me help you," the young bus conductor offered, extending his hand as Alina took her final step into the bus.

"Thank you, dear," Alina said gratefully, accepting his support.

"The usual spot at the back, grandma?" the conductor asked, guiding her along.

"You know it, dear," Alina replied, as they made their way to the very back of the bus.

Fifty years had passed since En's passing, but Alina remained steadfast in her promise, continuing to visit the cabin on 73rd Street. Her unwavering dedication over the decades left those at the terminal in awe, admiring her commitment to preserving the memory of her beloved and honoring the love they once shared.

As the wind gently brushed Alina's face, she felt a soothing calm. The music playing on the bus added to the tranquility of the open field and mountain view by the window. With the bus ride expected to take two and a half hours, she decided to relax and take a nap, letting the comforting melodies lull her into rest.

Alina woke up as the bus arrived at the terminal on 73rd Street, the other passengers beginning to disembark. She stood up slowly, making her way to the front of the bus. The young conductor was there to assist her, helping her with the final step down.

"Thank you again, dear," Alina said, her gratitude evident.

"You're welcome, grandma. I have a feeling you’ll enjoy your stay here as always," the young conductor replied with a warm smile.

As Alina walked slowly out of the terminal with the rest of the passengers, she noticed a familiar figure amidst the bustling crowd. The person, wearing a white shirt, jeans, and Converse shoes, held a bouquet of beautiful tulips and greeted her with a warm smile. The sight brought a comforting sense of recognition and connection, easing her heart as she drew closer.

"Hey baby, I missed you!" En greeted, extending the bouquet of tulips towards Alina.

A radiant smile spread across Alina's face, transforming her features back to the youthful face she had when they first met.

"I've waited for a while. I'm really happy to finally see you, my love."

En said, holding Alina's soft hands.

Alina could hardly believe it, but the warmth of En's hand in hers made her heart swell with happiness.

"Oh, En! I missed you, baby! So much!"

She exclaimed, leaping into En's arms and hugging her tightly, tears of joy mingling with the warmth of their embrace.

En held Alina’s face gently, their eyes locked with deep emotion. As their lips met, they shared a long, warm, and passionate kiss, their love and connection evident in every lingering moment.

"Grandma, we're here now,"

The young conductor said softly, trying to wake Alina, who slept peacefully at the very back of the bus with a serene smile on her face.

When she didn’t respond, he gently shook her, noticing something different as he held her hand. Realizing that she had found her eternal peace, the conductor understood that Alina was now happily reunited with En in her undisturbed dream, having finally found rest.

"I love you so much, En."

Alina said with a voice full of longing and tears as their lips finally parted.

"I love you too, baby. Always."

En responded softly, brushing a strand of Alina's hair behind her ear. With a tender smile, En extended her hand and said,

"Let's go home, baby."

Alina's face brightened with a joyful smile, gently taking her hand.

Alina and En walked hand in hand, making their way back to the cabin. This time, they were reunited for eternity, ready to spend their time together in their cherished haven.

-  The End  -