NA'S

. That morning, she came into my room with a shopping bag. Inside was a stunning gown and a matching pair of shoes. "You're wearing this today," she said with a smile. After breakfast, we dressed up and went out. We spent time at the beach, laughing, taking pictures, and for the first time in weeks, I felt light again. By noon, we went to one of the most highly rated restaurants in the state. As we ate, I realized I had forgotten my pain-if only for a moment. Just as we were about to leave, I heard someone call my full name. "Ariana..." I turned around slowly, my heart pounding. Standing there was Alex-my university boyfriend. The man I once loved deeply before life took us in different directions. We had lost contact after graduation. I couldn't believe my eyes. We hugged tightly, overwhelmed with excitement. Meeting him felt like an answered prayer. We exchanged contacts and spoke briefly before parting ways. That evening, Alex called me. We talked for hours, reliving old memories. Eventually, he invited me to dinner so we could talk properly. My cousin was thrilled when I told her. She even gave me one of her best dresses to wear. When I arrived at the restaurant, I scanned the room for him. Suddenly, a gentle touch brushed my arm. I turned and saw Alex, dressed elegantly in designer wear and sunglasses. He led me to our seat, and that familiar warmth returned. Over dinner, he told me about traveling to stay with his brother after school and how he lost his phone, losing all contacts-including mi