ManyWriters

In the year I lost both my parents, my mother's closest friend, who I affectionately called Auntie, welcomed me into her home.
She nurtured me with great care and affection, offering support and a depth of love I had never experienced before.
As a young lad experiencing his first crush, I secretly promised myself that I would wed my aunt when I became an adult.
Yet, during my coming-of-age celebration, when I finally mustered the courage to express my feelings for her, she reacted with anger!
She considered my affection a breach of moral standards, violating ethical and social norms.
From that point forward, she became increasingly aloof and distant. She even consented to an arranged marriage with the Lombart Family, effectively crushing any hope I had harbored.
Devastated, I abandoned my aspirations. I embarked on a freight vessel destined for far-off lands, resolved to leave everything behind.
Nevertheless, Auntie wept uncontrollably and pleaded with me to face her once more.

Aunt's Forbidden Love

When I arrived at home, Auntie hadn't returned yet. I checked the living room timepiece - it was 11:30 PM, unusually late for her.


I remembered how, as a youngster, I feared the dark. Upon learning this, Auntie would rush home to be with me, regardless of her work commitments. She even cancelled meetings for my sake.


However, once she became aware of my feelings, she began to distance herself. Her gaze turned cold and unfamiliar when she looked at me.


The gifts she used to bring from her business trips ceased. Our nightly storytelling and conversations vanished. She started coming home progressively later.


Now she acted like a courteous but detached relative, her words laced with forced warmth and lingering insincerity.


At 12:30 AM, Auntie finally appeared, intoxicated. As I opened the door to welcome her, I saw her leaning against a tall man. Her face was flushed, and she nestled her head on his chest.


A sharp ache pierced my heart. The pain spread through my chest.


This was the scenario I had dreaded most - Auntie becoming someone else's partner. It was why I couldn't let go of my feelings, why I confessed to her repeatedly over the years.


Yet, my worst fear materialized before me. I simply bowed my head, remaining silent.


Semi-drunk, Auntie shoved me away with annoyance. "Joey? Didn't I tell you not to stay up for me? I don't need your care anymore."


She then grabbed the man's arm and headed for the second floor - an area I hadn't visited since growing up.


I stood motionless, watching them as my heart sank further. I knew what would transpire once they reached the upper level.


This thought and the ensuing anguish shattered the emotional walls I had struggled to maintain. With a clenched fist, I summoned all my courage and pleaded desperately, "Auntie! Please, don't …."


She hesitated momentarily, her steps faltering. However, with the man's support, she continued ascending.


The man glanced back at me, a subtle smirk playing on his lips.


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