Chapter 1: The Weight of Unspoken Words

Gretta gazed out of her rustic log cabin, contemplating when he might return, if at all. Their connection dated back to elementary school; though their conversations were few, each encounter brought a warm familiarity. A sense of anxiety enveloped her as she pondered his travels abroad.

Recalling a single trip they took together to Italy, she cherished those peaceful moments and the joy they shared. They both understood their feelings but feared that expressing them might shatter their friendship—a fate witnessed by many around them. Their love was undeniable, yet they hesitated, worried that reaching too far too fast could lead to heartache.

Settling in the kitchen, clad in a red bathrobe and cradling a blue coffee cup, she slowly sipped her sweetened beverage. A heavy sigh escaped her lips as she grappled with the turmoil within her, yearning for the tranquility she craved.

She often found herself wishing she had revealed her true feelings to him, longing to spend her life by his side. Questions swirled in her mind: "Does he feel the same? Why didn't I speak up? Would he have reciprocated, or would I have been disappointed?" The uncertainty was overwhelming.

Chapter 2: A Letter Across the Sea

Meanwhile, in Greece, he immersed himself in the local culture, interacting with residents in their language, enjoying street musicians, and exploring the town. Despite the vibrant surroundings, thoughts of Gretta lingered, making the time apart feel agonizingly long.

"I haven't reached out to her in ages. I hope she hasn't moved on. But if she has, I understand. I'm miles away and she has no idea where I am. Even if she sees me only as a friend now, I would accept that—yet my feelings remain."

He pondered sending her a brief letter. "What if she doesn't read it? But 'what if' has never spurred me to action. It’s the least I can do to ease both our hearts."

Sitting near a fountain, illuminated by streetlights, he squeezed the ink from his pen, pouring out his thoughts. He was determined to finish the letter, feeling a sense of urgency—his emotions demanded an outlet.

"I'll send this tomorrow," he thought. "Wait, I can't! I'm flying back to the States in the morning. I need to get to the post office fast."

With determination, he completed the letter and rushed to the mailroom, where his older friend, Pavlos, awaited him.

"Don't rush, my son; I knew you’d be thinking of her," Pavlos said, surprising him with his late-night presence.

"Thanks, but won’t your wife be worried?"

"Ah, my son, focus on your future while I handle my own affairs. Just give me your letter, and I’ll send it for you at no cost!"

"Pavlos, you’re a lifesaver. Thank you!" he replied gratefully.

Fast forward a week, his flight was delayed, yet his letter had found its way to Gretta…

Chapter 3: Anticipation at the Mailbox

The mail arrived, and with hope in her heart, Gretta rushed to check the mailbox, bracing herself for disappointment. As she opened the worn edges of the yellow envelope, a spark of hope ignited. No amount of time could erase her memories of him, and she knew that if this letter was from him, she would respond without delay.

As she skimmed the letter, her heart raced with anticipation. The pressure of their separation had felt unbearable, and though only months had passed, it felt like years.

Before diving into the letter, she paused. "What if he’s moved on? What if this is a picture of him with someone new?" Despite her fears, she knew she needed to see what he had to say.

"I’ve wanted to write to you, but didn’t want to commit it to paper. Soon, I’ll be returning, and we’ll seal our connection with a kiss. Through all my travels, uncertainty loomed over me—whether I’d make it home or find our future together. Yet, thoughts of you have kept me grounded and hopeful. I owe you everything, my love. Thank you; I’ll be back. Love, Gideon."