Patience Heart

Heart Aflame Part 1

I wake up to the sound of my notification, the gentle chime pulling me from the depths of sleep.

"Morning, Ellie! Don't forget to wake up," the message reads, and I can't help but smile.

Even after my project was wrapped up at Chattame, Mathias's constant messages have become my lifeline, infusing my daily routine with a sense of purpose. Each text feels like a small spark, reigniting my spirit in ways I didn't know I needed.

It's been weeks since that pivotal day when I chose to let go of Adam for Karina. The decision still echoes in my mind, a mix of relief and heartache. But without Mathias by my side, I know I might have fallen apart entirely. He's been my anchor, my constant, reminding me that it's okay to feel vulnerable while also pushing me to find joy in each new day.

Every weekend, without fail, he drives all the way from San Jose to San Francisco just to see me. He knocks at my door with a different bouquet each time, his face lighting up when he sees me. The flowers—lilies, sunflowers, daisies—each choice seems to reflect his thoughtful nature, brightening my home and my heart in the process.

What's truly surprising is how quickly Timmy has warmed up to Mathias. Timmy has always been the type of kid who takes his time when it comes to new people, often retreating into his shell when faced with unfamiliarity. But Mathias has this innate ability to connect with him. Their conversations have become a heartwarming sight, filled with laughter and shared interests.

"Did you see the new superhero movie?" Mathias asks Timmy one Saturday, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"Yeah! I want to be just like him!" Timmy replies, his voice bursting with excitement as he gestures animatedly, mimicking the superhero's pose.

Mathias chuckles, joining in on the fun, and together they strike poses that make Timmy squeal with delight. I watch from the kitchen, my heart swelling with warmth. It's moments like these that remind me how lucky I am to have Mathias in our lives.

As the weeks roll on, I find comfort in the little routines we establish together. Weekend mornings turn into pancake breakfasts, with Timmy's giggles and Mathias's playful teasing filling the air. The kitchen becomes a lively space, flour dusting the countertops as we whip up breakfast, creating chaos and joy in equal measure.

"Okay, Chef Timmy, what's the secret ingredient?" Mathias asks, pretending to take notes on an imaginary clipboard.

Timmy puffs out his chest. "Chocolate chips! Always!"

I laugh, the sound echoing off the walls, and for a moment, everything feels right. In the midst of my own heartache, Mathias has created a safe haven for Timmy and me, a space where we can both heal and grow.

The days are still tinged with bittersweet memories of Adam, but they're also infused with new hope. With Mathias's unwavering support, I find the courage to embrace the future, even as I carry the weight of my past.

And as the sun sets each evening, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I can't help but feel that maybe, just maybe, I'm beginning to find my way back to myself.

In Mathias, I'm discovering more than just a friend; I'm finding someone who sees me, who 

In Mathias, I'm discovering more than just a friend; I'm finding someone who truly sees me, who values me for all that I am. As we share laughter and stories over dinner, I feel a flicker of something warm igniting within me—a hope for what lies ahead.

No matter what the future holds, I know I won't be facing it alone.

Without realizing it, my heart has begun to open slowly for Mathias. Each shared moment draws me closer to him, each laugh and gentle touch chipping away at the walls I'd built around myself. But as the sun sets, casting a warm glow across the room, I know it's time for honesty.