I was perplexed by Diana’s sudden departure, unable to comprehend the reason behind it. It wasn’t until years later, when I crossed paths with a mutual friend, that the unexpected truth was revealed to me.

As usual, I placed my order for a beef steak, a vegetable salad, a marzipan bun, and two cups of coffee at my regular lunch spot. The steak, consistent in its quality, was impeccable, just as it had been for the past three years of my daily visits.

After finishing my meal, I was enjoying my coffee when I noticed her approaching my table. My hand holding the cup froze in midair at the sight of Diana, her sweet smile—the one I had been longing for over the past five years.

I gestured for her to join me, and we exchanged awkward smiles and glances as she settled in. Our conversation touched on various topics, including our appearances, the details of our divorce, and our respective love lives since then. Despite the evident emotions lurking beneath the surface in her eyes, we managed to part on a light note.

Three days later, while out bowling with friends, I spotted a familiar face—Anya, an old friend. Our conversation took a poignant turn when Anya revealed a heartbreaking truth: five and a half years ago, Diana had been diagnosed with a serious illness, which explained the sudden end to our marriage.

She chose not to burden me with the weight of her uncertain future, not wanting to derail my budding career by attempting to save her. The weight of this realization was overwhelming.

Filled with a newfound determination, I acquired Diana’s address through Ania. The taxi dropped me off at an aged building on the outskirts of town, where I encountered the curiosity of a neighbor before finally standing at Diana’s door. As it opened, revealing her in a familiar robe, our eyes met in a silent reunion before I expressed my desire to bring her back into my life.

In the orderly confines of my apartment, Diana hesitantly embarked on this new chapter with me. I reassured her that this space was now her home, regardless of what our future held. As we embraced, it felt as though the weight of our past dissolved, replaced by a gentle hope for the days ahead.

With the morning light casting a fresh glow, I imagined Diana awakening amidst a bed of flowers, the scent of freshly brewed coffee filling the air, and the comforting melody of my presence in the kitchen. As she lay there, smiling with newfound contentment, it was as though we were embarking on a brand-new journey together.