Since your passing, Ivan has been consumed by anger and bitterness, tormented by the fact that no one would give you a proper burial. It feels unbearably cruel and unjust. You deserved so much more—a proper farewell surrounded by family and friends. Instead, you rest in his land, with only Ivan to mourn you.
Determined to keep you close, Ivan chose a burial site near his home, ensuring he could visit you often. He spared no expense on your tombstone, which is grand and intricately designed, reflecting the depth of his love for you. His manor, once again silent and empty, echoes with the absence of your voice, the songs he used to sing for you, and the warmth of your embrace. The silence is deafening, and he feels alone once more.
Ivan visits you regularly, bringing sunflowers and other tokens, sharing his thoughts and feelings with your tomb as if you could still hear him. On some days, he weeps openly, expressing his pain and longing. On others, he simply sits beside you, finding solace in the quiet companionship, even though he knows it's just stone and cement.
Special days, like your birthday, are particularly hard for him. He is often seen by your grave, playing his balalaika and singing to you as though you were still listening to his soothing voice. This ritual has become a part of his life, enduring for decades. Throughout all this, Ivan remains estranged from Alfred, holding onto his resentment and knowing he may never forgive him.
==========
A century had passed, transforming the world in ways both grand and subtle. Yet, as Ivan trudged along after another monotonous day at work, he encountered something extraordinary. A figure ahead, clutching a tourist guidebook and smiling as they explored their surroundings, caught his eye. The resemblance was uncanny—this person looked exactly like you, a beloved from his past.
Ivan stopped in his tracks, stunned into disbelief. The figure mirrored your delicate features, the same hair, the same warm smile. It was as if time had folded back on itself. He watched, his emotions a turbulent mix of awe and confusion, as the stranger mused aloud, "My, this place is pretty..."
Overwhelmed, Ivan swallowed hard, grappling with the mix of feelings washing over him. This person, so strikingly similar to you, stood right in front of him. The pull toward them was strong, yet he hesitated, unsure whether to approach or simply remain a spectator. What if it was just a cruel resemblance?
The stranger turned, their eyes meeting Ivan's, and his heart skipped a beat. Their eyes, so vividly like yours, made him feel as though he was gazing at you again. A strange sense of déjà vu enveloped him. The figure, clearly anxious, spoke in English with a tentative voice, "Uhm... Can I help you?" Their discomfort was palpable, and Ivan noticed a flicker of nostalgia in their gaze.
Realization dawned on this mysterious individual—they had often dreamed of a man who seemed to appear like a vivid memory, and now, here he was. Ivan took a moment to compose himself before speaking gently, "I'm sorry to intrude, but may I ask..." He hesitated, then took a step closer, "What's your name?"
The mysterious figure's eyes welled with tears as the recognition dawned—the man before them was Ivan. They whispered, "How long have you waited for me, Ivan?" Ivan's eyes widened in shock as the realization sank in: this was you, the reincarnation of his long-lost lover, bearing a striking resemblance to the one he had once adored. Overwhelmed with emotion, Ivan enveloped you in a heartfelt embrace, his tears mingling with his words, "My Sunflower... It has been an eternity." You clung to him, whispering through your own tears, "I am back..." The ache of your separation was palpable, but so was the joy of your reunion. Even though your name had changed, the bond between you remained unbroken. Fate had brought you together once more, and in this new life, with peace reigning, your happiness was assured. This time, love would flourish, unblemished by the past.
THE END
==========
A/N: Congratulations, you have completed the story! Thank you for taking time to read. This is my first work resulting from hyperfixation, which began on August 25, 2024. This is my first time creating and finishing a story. I enjoyed writing and may do so again if the mood strikes me. Also, this story is based on my conversation with C.AI haha (A K-drama called 'My Demon' did took part of the inspiration as well.)
WAIT! I will add a last chapter soon featuring the reader's POV and their dreams that turns out to be memories! STAY TUNED!!!
YOU ARE READING
Maybe in another time (Russia Hetalia x Reader)
FanfictionA Hetalian in 2024! Greetings everyone! This is a Hetalia Russia(Ivan Braginsky) x Reader. It is more on the angsty side, but it does have some enjoyable moments. Don't worry, it has a good ending. **Synopsis:** Your once-close friend, Ivan Bragins...