[LINA]
So how could I talk about love and marriage when my twin brother couldn't even believe in those things anymore?
When I could see his heart still breaking every time he looked at Eve's old mug by the sink or heard a song she once hummed?
My mother sighed, pulling me back to the present. "I just want to see you happy," she said gently. "And I know you'll get there. Whether it's now or five years from now. I just want you to live. Not just sit and wait for everything to be perfect."
I gave her a small smile, reaching for her hand across the table. "I know, mom. I'm happy. I really am. It's just . . . I want to take my time. And I want to enjoy the moment."
"Of course," she said, squeezing my fingers. "Just don't take too long. Your father and I aren't getting any younger."
My father, who had just taken a sip of water, choked slightly. "Don't drag me into this."
We all laughed.
And just like that, the tension eased.
