“Emily?” I called out, my voice trembling, barely more than a breath.

The woman turned, her eyes meeting mine. They were the same eyes I had gazed into countless times before, filled with warmth and mischief. But now, they held something else—a hint of sorrow, a flicker of recognition.

“James,” she said softly, a familiar melody in her voice, yet now tinged with an unfamiliar accent. My name on her lips sent shivers down my spine, stirring a ghost I thought had long been laid to rest.

“How… how is this possible?” I questioned, taking a hesitant step closer. Part of me feared the answer, while another clung desperately to the hope that miracles could exist.

She smiled, a bittersweet curve of her lips. “I’m sorry for the pain this must be causing you. I didn’t anticipate this.”