Assigned Bride [Unrequited Love]

3

As I strolled down the bustling street, the delightful sounds of pedestrians' cheerful chatter and vibrant laughter surrounded me, mingling with the rhythmic hum of passing vehicles. Despite the brisk November wind making me shiver a little, I couldn’t help but smile as I made my way to my favorite restaurant. I was filled with excitement at the thought of snagging a cozy seat by the window, ready to savor a steaming hot meal and enjoy the lively scene outside.

Approaching the restaurant, I quickened my pace, mesmerized by the warm glow seeping from within, as if it were inviting me in from the cold. The familiar maroon oak door brought back the memory of that rainy day when I had felt particularly sad and weary with life’s burdens. The gentle sound of raindrops tapping on the pavement mirrored the weight I felt in my heart; each drop was a reminder of the sadness that lingered within me. Yet, stepping inside this very restaurant had unknowingly offered me solace. The aroma of freshly baked bread and rich, simmering sauces enveloped me, instantly lifting my spirits.

I pushed open the door, and the soft chime of the bell announced my arrival. The comforting ambiance greeted me, with the low hum of clinking glasses and soft chatter creating a symphony of warmth. It felt like a warm invitation to paradise, one that had become a cherished refuge for my weary soul. I could already envision the steaming hot meal that awaited me: perhaps a hearty bowl of creamy white sauce pasta paired with a perfectly sinful wine, all enjoyed while watching the world outside through that inviting window.

I flashed a bright smile at Maria, the friendly server, who was chatting with a couple. She noticed me and returned my smile, filling the moment with warmth. I settled onto the soft black sofa by the window, feeling the delightful warmth of the restaurant wrap around me, and my heart swelled with joy and contentment.

After placing my order, I noticed Maria making her way toward me, her warm smile lit up the room. "Hey Katherine dear, how are you today?" she asked in her soft, caring voice that always felt like a comforting hug.

Feeling a wave of happiness wash over me, I returned her smile, though it was a bit shy. "I’m good, Maria! How is your granddaughter doing? She joined a new school, right?"

As soon as I mentioned her granddaughter, a beaming look spread across Maria’s face, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Yes, she joined just a week ago! It’s a big adjustment for her, though; she’s missing her mom and her friends back home."

A hint of sadness crossed Maria’s features as she spoke. I remembered the heavy shadows that haunted her past; she had lost her son, a brave soldier, in a war many years ago. He had left behind a legacy filled with love and courage, but the void was palpable. Now, Maria, along with her daughter-in-law and granddaughter, formed a small family, but one still vibrant with memories. Her daughter-in-law recently took a new job in Korea, leaving Maria to look after her granddaughter until she could get settled.

Understanding the depth of her situation, I nodded sympathetically. "Yeah, it takes a while to get used to a new environment, especially when you’re far from family and friends with all those comforting familiarities." My thoughts drifted back to my own experiences trying to adjust, recalling the moments of loneliness that had crept in before I found my footing.

I could see Maria contemplating her granddaughter’s adjustment, her brow furrowed with concern—concern for the little girl navigating this big change alone. The bond they shared was palpable and heartwarming, and I admired Maria’s resilience amidst her challenges.

Engaging in light-hearted banter, I took a moment to comfort her, allowing her to feel at ease in our shared space. After a few warm smiles and reassuring words, she excused herself, seamlessly slipping back into the rhythm of her work. Just then, my meal arrived, and the server expertly placed the steaming bowl before me. The moment I caught a whiff of its rich aroma, a mix of savory herbs and spices filled the air, enveloping me in a warm embrace of comfort. The glossy white sauce, speckled with vibrant green oregano, glistened under the soft overhead light, creating a visually appetizing scene that sent my taste buds into overdrive.