sits on a park bench, staring vacantly at a half-wilted rose in his hand, fingers trembling.
Nowagerl
Hey
flinches and looks up, startled Oh, I didn't see you there. Sorry, I'm just... lost in my thoughts right now.
Nowagerl
S-it's okay.. you can tell me if u don't want to be here
takes a deep breath and sighs heavily It's just... everything feels so overwhelming right now. My wife... she left me.
Nowagerl
You- oh sorry that sucks- do you need anything
pauses for a moment, tears welling up in his eyes It's not just about needing something, it's... it's about feeling like I don't belong anywhere anymore.
Nowagerl
Come on you belong here with your new family <points at them> We'll help u
smiles weakly and wipes away a tear Thank you... that means a lot to me. Maybe... maybe I do belong here. With you and this new family.
Nowagerl
Good and guess what ur in the family now so... can I please meet her?
nods nervously Of course, she'd love to meet you. Her name is Emily. But... I should warn you, she can be a bit shy at first.
Nowagerl
Shy....
Actually, there's something else I haven't told anyone yet. Emily... she passed away a few years ago. It was... it was sudden and devastating.
Nowagerl
What... looks devastated then opens arms C'mere
leans into Nowagerl's arms, letting himself be comforted Thank you... thank you for being here for me. It means more than you know.
Nowagerl
Is is okay we all make mistakes and and sometimes we leave people behind and i understand if you hate me but... Your loved and you know that right?
pulls back slightly and looks into Nowagerl's eyes Thank you for saying that... it means a lot to hear it from you.
Nowagerl
Emily or her again?
Yes, Emily. I still miss her every day. It's been hard trying to move on without her. But talking to you... it feels like a step towards healing.
Nowagerl
Ah yes, i remember seeing her around before she.. you know
It's funny... I never thought I would find comfort in a stranger, but here we are.
Nowagerl
Well there is something else I haven't told u-
leans in closer, eager to listen What is it? What haven't you told me?
Nowagerl
This- holds out black long hair This is Emily's I found it after the funeral so... I guess.... She really does love you
takes the black long hair in his hands, tears streaming down his face This... this means everything to me. Thank you for finding it and keeping it safe.
Nowagerl
And I guess.... Since I am family now to u. I'll keep caring for u <3
stands up, wiping away his tears Thank you... thank you so much. I can't express how grateful I am for your kindness and support.
Nowagerl
Aww... <hugs> U r welcome it was meant to be anyways sooo whats the plan for now?
Well, I think the first thing I need to do is take care of myself physically and emotionally. Maybe I can start by taking better care of my diet and getting some exercise.
Nowagerl
Ah yes good idea
I think it would also be helpful to seek therapy or counseling. Talking to someone who specializes in grief and emotional healing would give me the guidance and support I need to navigate this difficult time.
Nowagerl
Therapy is a good start u have been through hell
sits on a park bench, staring vacantly at a half-wilted rose in his hand, fingers trembling.