"Today's weather is quite chilly; you can just lie on the bed."
"Alright, I'll lay on the sofa then."
Both remained silent, lost in thought, unable to sleep.
Catherine lay on the bed, gazing at the ceiling in the darkness. She felt as if her mind were caught in an inexplicable whirlpool, unable to find sleep.
Catherine, her voice filled with sadness, said, "Thomas, I can't sleep. My mind is restless tonight."
Thomas, sitting beside her, stared at the faint light coming through the window. He, too, felt an unexplainable unease.
"I feel the same way, Catherine. Tonight, my heart feels imprisoned, unable to settle."
Catherine relaxed her shoulders, feeling the weight of everything pressing down on her. She wondered if she might be going through a psychological crisis.
Thomas pondered for a moment before looking into Catherine's eyes with sincerity.
"Perhaps life sometimes gets too complicated, and we feel pressure from all directions."
Catherine nodded, gazing at the light from the window. She could feel the negative thoughts overwhelming her, stealing her peace.
"Exactly, sometimes I feel like life is dragging me in an undesired direction. I want to change, but I don't know where to start. The complexities from family and art work are making me feel confused."
Thomas looked at Catherine with deep empathy, understanding the difficulties she was facing.
"I understand that feeling, Catherine. But we can't let ourselves get stuck in negative thoughts. We need to find a way to overcome and rediscover the joy in life."
Catherine raised her eyes, looking at Thomas with hope. She felt he was offering a glimmer of light in the darkness of her mind.
"We can't let life steal our happiness. Despite the challenges and pressures around us, we can still find joy and meaning in the little things."
"That's right, Thomas. Sometimes, we just need to pause, take a deep breath, and look around. There are so many precious and lovely things we've overlooked in life."
"Exactly, Catherine. Loved ones, simple joys like waking up together in the morning, a smile from someone, or a leisurely evening chat. All of that is waiting for us, we just need to pay attention and cherish it."
"Right, Thomas. We need to focus on the successes we've achieved, no matter how small they may seem; they're still significant steps forward. We shouldn't lose faith in ourselves."
Catherine expressed her gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Thomas. Your advice is meaningful and timely. We'll get through these challenges together and find the light again."
The two looked at each other, determination and hope in their eyes. Though the night was still long, they knew they weren't alone and that they would overcome all difficulties together.
The next day, Catherine and Thomas decided to wake up early to witness the sunrise. They woke up with excitement and anticipation for a new day filled with energy.
Catherine opened the window and looked at the scene before her, the dim light of dawn breaking through the clouds. She felt the freshness and hope in the air.
Catherine exclaimed, "Thomas, wake up! The sunrise is waiting for us!"
Thomas, still lingering in his last dream, woke up and felt the excitement in Catherine's voice.
Thomas happily said, "Indeed, Catherine! Today, we will enjoy a day full of energy and joy!"
Together, they prepared and left the house, walking along the path leading to the nearby beach. As they stepped out of the house, they were greeted by the soft light of dawn, creating a sense of warmth and tranquility in their hearts.
Catherine mused, "Look around, Thomas. This is truly wonderful. The dawn's light makes everything come alive and more beautiful."
Thomas, filled with awe, exclaimed, "It's amazing! We are fortunate to witness this scene. It's a reminder that life always offers precious moments to cherish."
They both paused and admired the sunrise, feeling the serenity and nature's love. Sometimes, words weren't necessary; their presence alone conveyed their thoughts and empathy.
Catherine gently said, "Thank you for always being there, Thomas. Your advice and support have helped me regain confidence and joy in life."
Thomas looked into Catherine's eyes, saying, "There's nothing to thank for, Catherine. We are companions, always ready to help each other. Let's enjoy this together."
"Hello, yes, I know. When will you arrive? Alright, we'll be at the dock waiting for you. Yes, today looks like a good day for traveling. Yes, take care. Goodbye."
"Let's go, back to the hotel. The earliest train here is in about an hour. Let's have breakfast and book a few rooms. Nicole and Matt must be very worried."
They returned to the hotel's dining area to enjoy breakfast and take in the scenery one last time before departing.
***
The day before...
On the beach, Nicole and Matt sat together, their faces tense and filled with worry. The sun had set, and the waves crashed onto the shore with a melancholic sound.
"Matt, I can't stop thinking about Catherine. We've been searching all day, and there's no sign of her."
"I know, Nicole. I'm extremely worried too. Catherine is our close friend, and her disappearance is something I can't accept."
"Don't blame yourself, Nicole. We've tried our best to search for her. However, we can't give up hope. We must keep searching until we find Catherine."
"You're right, we can't give up. But I still can't keep calm. I fear that she might be in danger or have encountered some accident."
"I share the same concern, Nicole. But we have to trust in Thomas. He's a very smart and determined person. He will surely find a way to help us locate Catherine."
Shortly after, the message they had been eagerly awaiting came through.
"I've found Catherine, and we are quite safe. So, when the weather darkens, we'll return home soon."