In the journey of youth, we found ourselves entangled in a love that had withstood the test of time. It was an old love, weathered by the years, yet still vibrant and alive within our hearts. As I gaze into your eyes, I invite you to witness your own reflection mirrored within my own. In this shared moment, we discover a profound intimacy, for there is no greater connection than when two souls unite in admiration for the same cherished things.

But in your absence, a void is felt. The places we once frequented, now devoid of your presence, still bear the mark of your essence. They remember you, as if etched into their very fabric, while I struggle to recognize myself within their familiar embrace. The absence of your being has left me feeling adrift, searching for the fragments of my own identity that were intertwined with yours.

Yet, even in this longing, I am reminded of the depth of our connection. The love we shared transcended the boundaries of time and space, leaving an indelible mark on both our souls. And though the places may recognize you more readily than I recognize myself, I find solace in knowing that our love has left an everlasting imprint on the world around us.

In this bittersweet journey of love and loss, I am reminded of the beauty and complexity that comes with intertwining our lives with another. Our shared experiences, both in presence and absence, shape us in ways we may not fully comprehend. And as I navigate the path ahead, I hold onto the memories of our old love, knowing that they have forever changed me, even as I search for the pieces of myself that have yet to be rediscovered.

© Copyright Beatriz Esmer (prose & drawing)