Chapter 22: The Maze of Life

BLISSFUL EUPHORIA

Aria and Jay were having breakfast. Aria was as enthusiastic as ever, but Jay seemed lost in thought. Aria gently said, "Be present at the moment." Jay looked at her with a puzzled expression. Aria continued, "You always seem lost in thought about the past." Jay smiled at her words, and she said, "See, even now you're giving me a fake smile." Jay responded, "Am I that transparent? How do you know I'm pretending to smile?"

Aria replied, "I know because your true smile is like a pure, bright sun that feels warm and cozy in this cold, dark world." Jay chuckled and said, "Are you reading fantasy books or something?"

Aria interrupted his sarcastic comment and said, 'Do you remember the first time we met?' Jay nodded yes. Aria continued, "If you were lost in thoughts that day and had walked away to your home as you usually do, then you and I would have never met. It was because you were present in the moment that day that you followed me. Therefore, if you dwell on the past now, you might miss this present moment."

Jay sighed. Aria went and sat beside him, taking his hand in hers, and asked, "Tell me, what's bothering you, dear?"

Jay replied, "I felt that your dad was cool. He helped you within minutes even though he is in another country, whereas I was not able to find you at all."

Aria smiled and said, "Aw, come on, honey. You're thinking wrong. If you were beside me at that moment, then you would have kicked their asses."

He smirked and said, "Yeah, I know kickboxing. I would have knocked them off." She remarked, "Oh, that's the reason for this nicely built body, huh?"

Life can often feel like a maze, with twists and turns, dead-ends, and unexpected surprises around every corner. Sometimes we feel like we're making progress, only to find ourselves back where we started, while other times we stumble upon a path we never would have anticipated. The key to navigating this maze is to keep moving forward, learning from our mistakes, and embracing the challenges that come our way. Just as in a maze, there may be moments of frustration and uncertainty, but with persistence, determination, and a clear sense of direction, we can find our way to the end and emerge victorious.

a man and woman holding hands while walking through an airport

Jay and Aria spent the rest of the days exploring and visiting almost all the places they had planned to see during their trip. Finally, they boarded the plane in Singapore to head back home. Upon arriving at the airport, Aria suggested that they go to her home since Jay's home was far away, and both of them were exhausted from the continuous travel and jet lag. Jay appreciated Aria's consideration, and they took a cab to her home. Little did they know, a huge surprise awaited them there.