"Mr. Eric, Ms.Lisa is here."
I nodded.
Tobin has been a dedicated employee for over 12 years and has been with us since the beginning...when we were together!
Lisa... When I see her, I feel nothing but accusation and resentment towards her for the rest of my life because she is the one who took my Sarah away from me.
If I were to rephrase it, I would...
She killed her...
She has been coming here ever since the day Sarah passed.
To deliver those apology letters to her... It has been over six years now.
After getting dressed, I reluctantly put on the white and black suit I detest the most.
However, I am obligated to see you, regardless of the distance, between us. I will forever cherish and find solace in our shared memories, even though they now bring tears to my eyes.
The pain of your absence is so overwhelming that all I can do is cry out louder, unable to do anything else. It is a constant reminder that you are no longer by my side.
I descended the staircase. As expected, she patiently awaits my arrival on this annual occasion. Together, we embark on our visit to Sarah. I am hesitant to bring her along because she unintentionally caused...!!!
I understand that it was an accident and she may have had negative feelings for a while. So, I cannot think of a valid reason to exclude her from visiting Sarah.
"Hey, I was-"
"You don't have to do this for long. I understand you are finding it hard to accept. But it is also hard for me to see you around. So please stop visiting us. And those letters. Just stop it."
I intervened in her sentence.
But she said nothing she stayed still with her wide-opened eyes.
As I left through the entrance, she tagged along with me.
* * * * *
I gently placed her favourite lilies on her grave, imagining her spirit dancing among the petals. When I visit her resting place, I feel her presence and find comfort in knowing these flowers bring her joy.
She is buried in Oakland.
At the same time, Lisa quietly left her sixth Apology letter for Sarah. Although it wasn't meant for me to see, I respected her privacy and refrained from prying on its contents.
I never cried in front of her grave for all these years because I assumed she was quiet and beautiful while sleeping there as expected.
But deep down, my heart shattered into a million pieces each time I stood before that cold stone, the weight of our unfinished love crushing me.
The pain in my chest grew unbearable as I yearned for her touch, her laughter and warmth...
Yet all I had were memories and unspoken words, forever trapped within the confines of my broken heart.
"Can we talk...?"
I asked Lisa while she was gaping at the Lilies.
"uhm, Yeah!"Sure."
She replied with tears in her eyes.
I know that she is in pain, and hurt.
But even though I feel angry, I remain with her, near my Sarah.
These emotions may seem unreasonable, but they still managed to break my heart.
"I insist that you do not visit us again."
"I can't do-"
"I am aware that you are currently feeling burdened.
I understand and sympathize with your situation.
For that reason, I request that you avoid coming to this place.
I wish to avoid feeling any negative emotions towards you.
I do not want to resent you or curse you."
She didn't say anything. As I looked into her eyes, I could see tears streaming down her face.
I didn't want to make her feel sorry for herself, so I walked away from the situation without any hesitation.
"I will not leave until I complete what I came here to do."
I refused to be swayed by her confidence as I opened the door and drove away.
Despite her assurances, I knew deep down that something was off.
After reaching home, I got into the room. I pulled out the drawer and checked my phone.
From the office: "There is a meeting at 12.30"
Mom: "I want to meet you."
Jeff: "Eric, it's urgent call me."
Jamie Segar: "Deepest condolences."
After thoroughly going through my messages, I came across a message from Jamie, who happens to be my stepbrother currently residing in Russia. I don't have any information regarding his background or whereabouts in life. However, what strikes me as odd is that he sent me a message out of the blue...and how come he knew about Sarah?
Jamie Calling...
Phone ringed.
"Hello...?"
"Hey, man."
"Why?"
"I know that recently!...my deepest condolences. I'm here to see your mother."
"Here? You are here?"
"Yes, in California."
"You have been away for quite some time, over 12 years.
Your current visit is not to pay respects to our dad's tomb but to visit my mom."
"Oh, by the way, I don't think Mrs.Segar told you yet. Anyway, I gotta go. Talk to you later."
He hung up the phone before explaining that he was here, to see my Mom.
Mom calling...
Phone ringed.