Christophe opened the door for me to step out. It was now two in the morning, and I stood right in front of house number 38 on Crémieux Street. I looked at my house, then turned to see Christophe still waiting politely, leaning against the car's body. His face held a gentle smile, shielding me from embarrassment or shame. I tried to find words to say to him, but I felt too weak to open up again. After a brief moment of contemplation, I realized words were unnecessary. I simply nodded in lieu of a farewell and turned to go inside. However, as my hand reached for the door handle, Christophe suddenly spoke:

"Fiona?"

"Yes?" I immediately turned back.

"Will we still be as we were?" Christophe's eyes bore a seriousness that was unusual.

"I was actually going to ask you the same thing..." I smiled and replied. "Will we still be good friends?"

"Then you can rest assured!" Christophe let out a sigh of relief. "Until next time, Fiona."

"See you later, Chris."

A seemingly ordinary conversation, yet incredibly significant for the two of us. I had been so anxious, fearing that I might lose a genuinely sincere connection. I opened the door to the house, ready to conclude my long day, but I paused as Christophe began to speak again.

"Fiona..."

Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

I listened as his voice grew deeper, more earnest than before. Christophe looked down at the tips of his shoes, his hands tucked into his pockets. I stood upright, waiting for what he was about to express. Insects hummed softly, like tiny lights illuminating the street. Christophe then raised his gaze to meet mine. As if he had carefully thought through his words, he spoke with genuine sincerity:

"If at any point you've truly moved on from your past love, and if I still haven't found peace with anyone, I hope you might consider giving me a chance."

At first, I didn't know how to respond to his words. I thought it might be a jest until I peered deeply into those blue eyes. I knew it was a heartfelt and serious proposition. I bit my lip gently, lowered my head in thought. I needed to delve deep into my emotions. I wanted to be truly sure about what I was about to say. They say hope is the death of reason. I didn't want anyone to lose their faith because of a mistake or an immature feeling. But I also didn't want this loneliness to linger forever. I was getting older, and I could feel the current of time flowing cyclically through this body. I wanted to age with the person I loved. Life only had meaning when you loved and were loved in return, and I was ready to embrace that!

I smiled at him, a smile that held both confidence and sincerity. With a soft yet genuine tone, I spoke:

"I don't want you to wait for me alone," I hesitated, letting an air of mystery hang in the words. "But if that were to truly happen, I will consider it."

A radiant smile lit up Christophe's lips, and I knew he felt immense joy and happiness. We said our final goodbyes, truly this time, and each of us walked away in different directions. I stood in the room, gazing after his departing car, a gentle smile lingering on my lips.

Francine had fallen asleep at some point, and all I could do was stand by the door, watching the tranquility that enveloped my daughter. She had resilience and a greater capacity for healing than I did. Three years ago, we returned to England to see my mother for the last time before she passed away. At that time, I also shared with Francine about Andermis's departure. She became more desperate than ever. She cried so much, for so long, and even went through a period of fasting. But now, much of that pain seemed to have faded away from her. Perhaps she inherited a bit of her father's ability to let go. Oh, Francine! Looking at her now, I felt warmth and a sense of peace. I hoped her life would remain as serene as this, at least in love.

In the quiet night, I faced myself once again. Tonight was another sleepless night. I sat in front of the mirror, gazing pensively at my reflection. I tilted my head slightly, a wrinkle near my eye becoming prominent. This beauty was slowly approaching its expiration date. No springtime could last forever. I had truly aged! Would I have enough time left to continue dreaming? There were too many questions to face tonight. I sighed heavily. Tonight was another sleepless night.