The wind on Our backs

30- Embrace

December had draped its cold, gentle arms around the world, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. The air was crisp and sharp, filled with the lingering scent of pine and the promise of the holidays. Rachel stood at the window of her room, gazing out at the snowflakes dancing in the twilight. They sparkled under the streetlights, reminiscent of the laughter and joy that once echoed through her heart. Now, an emptiness gnawed at her insides, a void that Adrien's absence had carved out.

In the days following Adrien's funeral, she had been a quiet visitor in her own life. Each moment felt like a fragile thread, easily unraveled by the memories that flooded her mind. The laughter they had shared, the adventures they had embarked upon, and the dreams they had spun together were now bittersweet echoes of a time that seemed too far away. Yet, in the midst of her grief, she found solace in Adrien's parents. They welcomed her into their home, wrapping her in a warmth that reminded her of the bond she had shared with their son.

As Rachel settled into their living room, she marveled at how different their home felt without Adrien. His absence was a palpable silence that enveloped the space. She caught glimpses of him in every corner—the books he had left on the table, the photos hanging on the walls, and the faint scent of his favorite cologne lingering in the air. It was as if the house itself mourned, echoing her heart's sorrow.

One evening, as she sat curled up on the couch with Adrien's mom, they sipped hot cocoa, reminiscing about the memories they had made with Adrien. His mom shared stories of his childhood, the mischievous smile he always wore, and the moments that made her heart swell with pride. Rachel listened intently, finding comfort in the shared grief that bound them together. It reminded her that while Adrien was gone, the love they had for him would always keep his spirit alive.

"Would you like to join us for Christmas?" Adrien's mom asked, her voice tender yet laced with uncertainty.

Rachel paused, the question hanging in the air. Christmas had always been a time of joy and celebration, but this year felt like a hollow celebration. "I... I don't want to intrude. I know this is a hard time for you," she replied softly.

Adrien's dad smiled gently, "You're not an intrusion, Rachel. You're part of our family now. We'd love for you to be there. Adrien would want that."

A warm glow spread through Rachel's heart at their invitation. It was a gesture of kindness, a way to keep Adrien's memory alive during a season that felt so bleak. She nodded, feeling the weight of grief lift just a little. "Okay. I'd love to be there."

As the days passed, Rachel found herself preparing for her trip back to Singapore. Packing her belongings was a bittersweet task, filled with a mix of excitement and melancholy. She rifled through her things, each item bringing back memories—her school books, clothes she had outgrown, and the little trinkets that had once meant so much to her. Among the scattered items, she found the seashell they had collected together on the beach, a simple reminder of happier days. She gently placed it in her pocket, holding onto the memory of Adrien tightly.

On Christmas Eve, Rachel found herself surrounded by Adrien's family, the warmth of their laughter filling the air. The house glowed with twinkling lights, and the scent of cinnamon and pine wrapped around her like a comforting blanket. They shared stories, exchanged gifts, and for the first time in weeks, Rachel felt a flicker of joy ignite within her.

As they gathered around the dinner table, Rachel glanced at the empty seat where Adrien should have been. The ache in her chest was still there, but it was accompanied by a newfound sense of hope. She realized that while she could never replace him, she could carry his memory with her, honoring him in the life she lived.

That night, after everyone had settled in, Rachel found herself alone in Adrien's room, surrounded by the shadows of his presence. She looked at the picture board he had made for her, and the words he had written resonated deeply within her. "I hope you can remember yourself the way I know you, Rachel. I love you, kid." Tears brimmed in her eyes, but this time they were accompanied by a sense of gratitude. She had loved him deeply, and even in his absence, he continued to inspire her to embrace life fully.

As she prepared to leave for Singapore, Rachel took a deep breath, feeling a mix of sadness and hope. She knew the journey ahead would not be easy, but she was determined to carry Adrien's spirit with her wherever she went. The love they shared would guide her through the darkness and remind her to celebrate the beauty of life.

In the quiet of the night, as she stepped out into the snow-covered street, she looked up at the sky. The moon hung brightly above, casting a soft glow on the world below. "Goodnight, Adrien," she whispered, knowing he would always be a part of her journey. With that, she took a step forward, ready to embrace whatever awaited her, carrying Adrien's love in her heart, forever.