This bridge had witnessed everything. The spark and the flame of our story.

I met Leon Stephen Dutch here, six years ago.

I was a journalist, on the hunt for a scoop about a tragic suicide. He was a detective. We were pretty much on the same boat. He looked tough and rough, but his mesmerising smile would melt you right away. He sparked my curiosity, and I guess I sparked his.

We bumped into each other a few more times. He asked me to join him for coffee, and I agreed. We talked for hours, and he made me laugh. He was smart, witty, and kind. We bumped into each other at the airport again, where we both boarded the same flight, chasing our targets. He had a lead that took him to Houston. I had a hunch that followed him there. He asked me to join him for the night. We ate by candlelight. I loved the way he made me feel. He made me feel alive. He was adventurous, loyal, and brave. And he was gentle, romantic, and passionate all the same.

We kissed under the stars. It felt magical. We fell madly in love, and he popped the question. He proposed to me on the rooftop of his apartment. I was ecstatic. He wanted me to move in with him in Houston. He was everything I ever wanted, and more.

I had crossed this bridge every day, commuting to work and back. Leon worked grueling hours, from seven to nine. He seldom had time to drive me anywhere, but he did it whenever he had a chance. He loved me, I had no doubt.

Rayan was mute the whole way from Texas to here. He seemed absorbed in the road, nothing else. He was usually chatty around me, but not today. He didn't approve my decision to go back to Houston and meet Nina. Neither did Andi or Mrs Monika. They all thought I was nuts. To comeback here and get hurt as if on purpose. That's why Mrs Monika sent Rayan with me, to keep an eye on me.

I looked out of the window. The sky was clear and blue, but the bridge felt cold and barren. A gust of wind blew through the open shutter, sending shivers down my spine. I saw something flash by, something familiar and haunting.

"Stop...!!!" I screamed at Rayan, who was driving serenely.

The car screeched to a halt, as if struck by lightning. Rayan was gripping the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles white around it. He had his all might pressed on the brake as it was his only lifeline. He whipped his head around and gaped at me, shocked as if he had seen a phantom. His face was the epitome of horror and bewilderment.

"What the?! What was that Sara?"

My heart felt like it had dropped to my stomach.

What had I just witnessed?

Wasn't that the spot where everything changed for me?

Where we were torn apart forever!!

***

"Are you...okay Sara?" Ray's voice pierced through the haze of my thoughts, his words heavy with concern and a hint of fear.

The sound of his footsteps approaching echoed faintly against the backdrop of the bridge, where I stood, clutching the twisted metal railing as if it were the only thing keeping me anchored to reality. Hot tears streaked down my cheeks, each drop a painful reminder of the anguish that had consumed me since that tragic night.

The car had screeched to a halt moments ago, and I had leaped out of it, running towards the edge of the bridge like a woman possessed. Now, as Rayan stood beside me, his presence offering some semblance of comfort, I struggled to find words to answer him. How could I possibly explain the maelstrom of emotions raging inside me?

For two long years, I had searched relentlessly for answers. Every day and every night, I wrestled with questions that had no solutions. And here I was, standing at the very spot where everything had changed—the Houston bridge, where the crash had torn apart our lives. Below us, the water shimmered eerily, a silent witness to the tragedy that had unfolded.

I couldn't tell Ray I was okay, because I wasn't. I couldn't articulate how I felt, because the pain was still raw, the grief still overwhelming. The bridge, with its cold metal railing and the haunting memories it held, seemed like a cruel reminder of all that I had lost.

Rayan's concern was palpable, his eyes searching mine for a glimpse of understanding. But there were no words that could adequately convey the depth of my despair. How could anyone comprehend the emptiness that echoed through me, the void that Leon's absence had left behind?

"I... I don't know," I finally managed to whisper, my voice hoarse with unshed tears. It was the only honest answer I could give. In that moment, standing on the bridge where Leon's life had ended and mine had shattered, I couldn't pretend to be fine. The ache in my heart was too profound, too agonising.

Rayan reached out tentatively, his hand hovering near mine. He didn't need to say anything. the floodgates of sorrow opened, I collapsed into Rayan's arms, the tears I had been holding back now flowing freely. His embrace was warm and comforting, a steady presence amidst the turmoil that engulfed me. He held me close, murmuring soft reassurances and offering silent support as I poured out my grief.

Rayan and Leon had become like brothers since they first met through me. There were memories of hikes and trips we had taken together, moments where laughter had filled the air and camaraderie had forged unbreakable bonds.

I remembered one particular hiking trip to the Grand Canyon, where our team, including Janu and Angelica, had embarked on an adventure that tested our limits and strengthened our friendship. Leon, always adventurous and full of life, had insisted on leading the way, while Rayan had kept us entertained with his witty remarks and endless energy. Even then, they had formed a connection that went beyond mere friendship, sharing a mutual respect and understanding that transcended words.

Back then, we were a team—a family forged not just by work but by shared experiences and unwavering support for each other. And now, as Rayan held me in his arms on the bridge where Leon's life had ended, I found comfort in knowing that despite the pain, I wasn't alone. Rayan was here, just as he had always been, ready to shoulder my sorrow and help me navigate the turbulent waters of grief.

***

As our car rolled into Nina's courtyard, the sun descended in the northern sky, its warm rays casting a golden glow over the tranquil scene. The driveway stretched out before us, flanked by manicured hedges and vibrant flower beds in full bloom. Nina stood at the doorstep, her figure silhouetted against the soft hues of the setting sun, a welcoming smile lighting up her face.

She waved eagerly as we approached, her expression a mix of relief and joy at our arrival. The air was filled with the sweet scent of summer blooms mingling with the subtle hint of freshly cut grass, creating a serene atmosphere that seemed to welcome us home.

"Nina!" I called out, stepping out of the car. The warmth of the evening enveloped me as I walked towards her, grateful for her familiar presence after the long journey.

"Sara, dear!" Nina exclaimed, her voice tinged with warmth as she enveloped me in a heartfelt hug. Worn out and conflicted as I was, I melted into the sweet fragrance of lavender and soft cotton that surrounded her. Nina had always been one of the best huggers I knew.

"It's good to see you too, Nina. It's been too long," I replied, smiling into the hug.

"How have you been? You are such a courageous girl, Sara," she continued, drawing comforting circles on my back.

Nina knew most of my story. She had been like a second mother to Leon, especially after their parents passed away when he was just a baby. Her devotion to him had been unwavering, and Leon had adored his sister beyond measure.

"And this is...?" Nina finally broke from the embrace and directed her warm gaze towards Ray.

"Oh, this is Rayan. One of our good old friends. Ray, this is Nina, Leon's sister."

Rayan nodded respectfully, his expression softening with a smile as he greeted Nina. It was his first meeting with her, despite having visited me a few times when I lived in Houston with Leon. She welcomed him with equal warmth, extending her hospitality effortlessly.

Nina's abode was as charming as she was, a sanctuary that exuded warmth and comfort from the moment we stepped onto her front porch. The wooden planks beneath our feet creaked softly with each step, worn smooth by years of use. Hanging baskets overflowed with cascading ivy and vibrant blooms, their delicate fragrance lingering in the air.

The front porch itself was adorned with vintage wicker furniture, lovingly adorned with plump cushions in faded floral patterns.Overhead, a porch swing swayed lazily, its ropes creaking in harmony with the breeze that rustled through the nearby trees.

As we entered Nina's home, a sense of nostalgia washed over me. The interior spoke of a bygone era, yet felt timeless in its appeal. The walls were painted in soft, earthy tones that complemented the rich wooden floors and trim. Oriental rugs in deep hues adorned the floors, their intricate patterns adding a touch of elegance to the cosy space.

The living room welcomed us with overstuffed armchairs and a plush sofa, all arranged around a sturdy coffee table adorned with fresh flowers from the garden. A brick fireplace stood as the focal point, its hearth adorned with family photographs and trinkets collected over the years. A rocking chair sat in one corner, its gentle sway beckoning for a moment of relaxation.

A staircase in the corner of the living room curved gracefully upwards, its wooden bannister polished to a shine from years of use. It led to the second floor where Nina had prepared rooms for us. I could remember the last time I came here with Leon–we had a good time.

"Anything to drink, you guys? Tea? Coffee? Soft drinks maybe, Rayan?" Nina's voice carried a gentle warmth as she stood in the doorway leading from the living room into the kitchen. Her smile was inviting, a reflection of the cozy atmosphere that surrounded us.

"Iced coffee sounds perfect, Nina. Thank you," Rayan replied, his tone appreciative as he glanced around the beautifully appointed room.

"Tea would be lovely, Nina. Thank you," I added, my gaze drawn to the charming mismatched tea sets displayed on the open shelves.

Nina nodded, her movements graceful as she disappeared into the kitchen. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the lingering scent of baked goods, creating an irresistible blend that filled the air with comfort and nostalgia.

Rayan and I settled into the inviting armchairs, the plush cushions embracing us as we relaxed in the familiar surroundings. Sunlight filtered through the lace curtains, casting gentle patterns on the polished wooden floor. The soft hum of a distant radio played an old tune, adding to the nostalgic ambiance.

Minutes later Nina returned with a tray laden with drinks, she placed a steaming cup of tea in front of me and a tall glass of iced coffee next to Rayan. "Here you go, dears. I hope you enjoy," she said warmly, her eyes twinkling with genuine pleasure at our contented smiles.

"Thank you, Nina. " I said sincerely, wrapping my hands around the comforting warmth of the tea cup.

Rayan nodded in agreement, taking a sip of his iced coffee. "Absolutely. This place is lovely."

Nina's smile widened, her eyes briefly flickering with memories of days gone by. "You're always welcome here, both of you. Make yourselves at home."

"So... what's the big surprise you wanted to share with me?" I asked, taking a contemplative sip of the soothing tea. The warmth of the cup seeped into my hands, comforting me in Nina's cozy kitchen.

Nina settled into the chair opposite us, her expression thoughtful yet tinged with a hint of excitement. "Well, it's something that I've held onto for a while now," she began, her voice carrying a gentle cadence that matched the tranquility of the room. "After you left Houston, I went through Leon's things... the ones we couldn't bear to touch before."

I set my tea down, my heart fluttering with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. The mention of Leon's belongings brought back a flood of memories—both painful and cherished.

Nina continued, her eyes briefly drifting to a framed photograph on the mantelpiece beside us. It captured a moment from our trip to the Grand Canyon, where Leon had surprised me with a spontaneous hike under the starry desert sky. "Among his things, I found a box, filled with a lot of small small gifts–I guess those were the ones you guys shared with eachothers, bangles, rings, even concert tickets..." she revealed, her voice softening with emotion, "and something else."

Rayan leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. "Something else?" he prompted gently, sensing Nina's hesitation.

Nina nodded, a faint smile touching her lips. "It's a letter," she explained, her gaze drifting to me with a mixture of sympathy and hope. "A letter he wrote to you, Sara. Letters he never had the chance to send."

I gasped softly, my heart skipping a beat at the revelation. A letter from Leon... words he had penned for me, perhaps in moments when I wasn't around, or during those quiet nights when we lay side by side, lost in our own thoughts.

"I din't read it, Sara. it was addressed to you so how could I," Nina continued, her voice filled with reverence. "But I think you should read it. It might bring you some peace."

Tears welled up in my eyes, a mixture of longing and gratitude washing over me. "Thank you, Nina," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you for keeping them safe all this time."

Nina reached across the table, placing a reassuring hand over mine. "It's what he would have wanted," she said softly. "Whenever you're ready, they're here for you."