Undying Love: Maria the Orphan

Morning peeked through my window as sunlight streamed in, heralding a new day. I opened my eyes to the familiar sound of my phone ringing, and the first thought that crossed my mind was of Jack. I wondered: was everything that had happened real, or just a dream? It wasn't until I saw his card on the bedside table that I believed it. I dragged myself out of bed lazily and drew back the curtain on my balcony window. What a beautiful day it was—bright and full of cheer! 

I descended the stairs noisily, as I always do, calling out for my mother. I had missed her; we hadn't spent time together yesterday, and surely, she must have missed me too. I found her in the living room, lying on her couch as usual, lost in memories of my father since his passing. Not a day went by without her mentioning him. He had been kindhearted, with a love that embraced everyone. 

I kissed her cheek, and she pulled me into her arms, saying: 

"Snowwhite, I've missed you. I know you haven't been well. Are you feeling better now, my dear?" 

I replied, "Yes, Mama, don't worry. It's just been a lot of work and files." 

She urged me, "Then ask your boss for a break. You deserve it." 

I reassured her, "Mama, you know how much I love my job. It's the only thing that fills my emptiness and brings me happiness, even if it's exhausting." 

Seeing my insistence, she said, "The important thing is that you're happy. Now go have breakfast with Sophie so you won't be late for work." 

Smiling broadly, I replied, "Yes, Mama. Oh no! I forgot about work. I'm afraid my boss will scold me for being late!" 

I quickly ate breakfast, changed into my work attire, and left for the office. Within minutes, I was there, tackling the usual pile of files. But Jack's image never left my mind. 

A knock on the door startled me—it was Olivia. I had forgotten to ask about her father. She might be upset, though it wasn't intentional. Olivia walked in carrying sandwiches and a beautiful bouquet of flowers with a card nestled inside. 

Handing them to me with a smile, she said, "So, Snowwhite, you're keeping secrets from me? Aren't I your best friend and like a sister to you?" 

I took the bouquet and read the card—it was from Jack. My heart raced. How could I explain to Olivia that all of this had happened so suddenly? I hadn't even come to terms with it myself. I still couldn't believe that I had fallen for Jack, unable to imagine life without him. 

I mumbled, "Olivia, I was going to tell you everything. I just wanted to be sure first, and everything happened so fast—one event after another." 

She laughed and said, "I believe you, dear. Just tell me the story. I love hearing about how love begins!" 

"You're crazy. We haven't even started yet to call it a love story. But I won't deny it—I love him, even though I haven't spent time with him." 

Intrigued, she asked, "How is that possible? You've piqued my curiosity, Snowwhite. Tell me about this mystery." 

I replied, still in disbelief, "It's the sparkle in his eyes. It captivated me and stole my heart until my soul became entwined with his." 

Olivia teased, "The sparkle in his eyes? I bet they're magnetic, pulling you in and making you forget your best friend." 

I confirmed, "I forgot even myself. The biggest problem is that I know almost nothing about him. We met by chance that day at the restaurant." 

Olivia smiled knowingly and said, "Ah, so that's it. You've been different since that day. I hope he's meant for you, dear. First love is always the most genuine." 

After work, Olivia accompanied me as usual. Once home, I joined my mother and Sophie for dinner until it was time to sleep. I lay in bed, holding a flower from the bouquet, inhaling its fragrance as my thoughts wandered to Jack. I wondered: was he thinking of me too? 

Lost in my thoughts, my phone rang. 

"Hello? Who's this?" 

"It's Jack. How are you, Maria? I've missed you. I've been longing to see you. Could you grant me this dream?" 

Stunned into silence for a moment, I finally managed to say yes. My heart, overwhelmed with joy, felt as though it could take flight like a butterfly dancing among flowers. 

Jack was thrilled by my acceptance, and we arranged to meet after my work the next day. I couldn't sleep that night from sheer happiness. At last, I was certain—I had been wandering, searching for my other half. Without him, I was like a shadow without its source. 

Even my music had been aimless when I played, but now, the melody had transformed into a beautiful tune that resonated with life itself. Though I was torn between presence and absence, I felt his spirit intertwining with mine, even in his absence. Since meeting him, something within me had shifted, coursing through my veins and compelling me to retreat into my thoughts. 

I kissed my father's picture, turned off the lights, and went to sleep, eager for tomorrow to come quickly—for it would bring our first meeting.