When I arrived, her body was lifeless, and her face still bore the sweet smile I knew so well.

I felt like the world was crumbling beneath my feet. I lived like a ghost for a year.

The house we had built with so much effort became a cold and empty place. Every time I opened the closet and smelled her fabric softener, I collapsed.

My friends and family urged me to rebuild my life, but I just shook my head. I believed I no longer deserved anyone and could never love again.

Until Laura came into my life.

She was a new coworker, five years younger than me. She wasn’t pushy or invasive.

But her silent affection slowly showed me that my heart could still feel warmth. When I thought of Mariana, she would simply sit next to me and offer me a cup of tea.

When the noise from the street brought back memories of the tragedy, she would hold my hand until I calmed down.