Sipping on a steaming cup of exquisite latte in a cafe in the residential area, Emma embarked on a journey to Stortorget via the vibrant blue and yellow public transit. As she entered the heart of Stockholm's Old Town, a picturesque scene unfolded. The charming and colourful buildings of Gamla Stan, with their facades painted in hues of ochre, red, and pastels, created a delightful contrast against the crisp winter air. Despite the lingering chill outside, the lively spirit of the Old Town persisted. Pedestrians strolled along the cobblestone streets, wrapped in cozy scarves and jackets, undeterred by the temperature. The atmosphere was infused with a sense of enchantment as people reveled in the historical allure of Gamla Stan. The ambiance, adorned with the architectural beauty and the buzz of activity, painted a scene that felt like stepping into a living canvas of Swedish charm.
Emma's phone chimed with an incoming call – it was Charlotte, Emma's dearest friend from London. She answered and Charlotte jumped into the conversation.
"Emma! How are you?!"
"I'm ok. How are you Charlotte?"
"Well just as usual. I've been worried about you. How's everything? Are you visiting Stockholm now? I still cannot believe you just moved there like this."
"It's been a lot recently. You know about the whole tech lay-off situation, and on top of that, I had to deal with the breakup."
"Yes yes. You told me. But why did you go to Stockholm? Why now? Why leave your friends when you need us the most?"
"I needed some distance, Charlotte. London was becoming suffocating with memories, especially with Will. I just needed a fresh space."
"But is William really so unforgivable?"
Emma stopped for 3 seconds. "It's complicated, Charlotte. Let's just say I need space from places that hold too many memories."
"I get it…Just remember, you don't have to go through this alone. Call me whenever you need to talk."
"Thanks, Charlotte. Your support means a lot."
"Of course, Emma. Take care of yourself, okay?"
"I will, Charlotte. Thanks for being there."
"Anytime, Emma. Sending you lots of love and positive vibes."
Ending the call, Emma couldn't help but smile. Charlotte had been her friend since middle school, a companion through the highs and lows of life. They had witnessed each other's best and worst moments, and Emma always found solace in Charlotte's unwavering support. Having such a great friend was indeed a stroke of luck.
Emma extended her exploration until the sky transitioned into darkness, and the streetlights illuminated the winding streets. The time had come for dinner, and as she wandered, a restaurant caught her eye. Peering through the window, she noticed a couple engrossed in conversation. A flood of memories washed over her—memories of a celebratory dinner with William during the competition days. Back then, in contrast to their serious competition attire, Emma had donned a navy cocktail dress. Recollecting the evening, she couldn't shake the sensation that William had stolen glances at her. Yet, each time she turned to meet his gaze, he turned away.
In Emma's recollection, William had consistently shone like a star: intelligent, charismatic, and incredibly handsome in a suit. The first time she saw him dressed up, her heart raced with excitement. Emma wholeheartedly believed that being with William was her good fortune. However, when the harsh realities emerged, she discovered that things weren't as idyllic as she had once believed.
Catching herself dwelling on thoughts of William once more, Emma gently shook her head, as if attempting to rid herself of his lingering presence. Dining solo in a restaurant felt less than ideal for her current state, she mused. Opting for a different plan, she entered a nearby grocery shop and snagged a few items before hopping on the metro back to her place.
Emma also got a call from her parents. Aware of her limited cooking skills, they were surprised to hear that she was preparing her own dinner. "I'm just reheating a pizza!" Emma rolled her eyes, yet feeling a warm connection as she spoke to her mum.
"Take care of yourself, my daring. Remember, you can always come back home if you don't want to stay in London."
Her mother knew her too well. Emma thought. "Thanks mum. But this time, I like to try something new. I never left London. Maybe this is my time to try."
"You know, I can't help worrying about you, darling. But I respect your adventurous spirit. What new things are you planning to try?"
"Well, Mum, I've never really left London before, and now that I'm in Stockholm, I want to explore different aspects of life. Who knows what exciting opportunities might come my way?"
"I'm proud of you, Emma. Just promise me you'll take good care of yourself, alright? And call me whenever you need to."
"I promise, Mum. I love you."
"I love you too, my daring girl. Remember, no matter where you go, you always have a place here with us."
Alone once more, Emma found herself instinctively scrolling through her phone. The lingering hope of receiving a message from William couldn't be denied. Even if William sent just one message to her, she might choose to fly back to London. However, the rational and occupied version of him made her wary of placing too much expectation, a habit she had often succumbed to in their relationship.
The revelation of the significant tech layoff had left Emma yearning for William's support, but his urgent project demanded his undivided attention. Reflecting on their post-university days, Emma couldn't ignore the increasing frequency of William's absence from occasions she had anticipated sharing with him. While she comprehended the demanding nature of investment banking, it didn't mean she could abruptly cease seeking closeness and connection with him.
Overwhelmed by vulnerability, Emma found herself unable to contain the torrent of tears. Waves of sadness, frustration, and longing collided within her, breaking down the walls she had tried to build. His absence felt like a weight on her chest, and each unspoken word, unmet expectations, and unresolved emotion became an unbearable burden.
Emma cried, cried, and cried…