The One I Lost

"Mom, Dad, I agree to head home to go on blind dates and get married. I'll be back by the end of this month."It's early spring, so it's still quite chilly. Stephanie Rowell opens the door while speaking on the phone, her soft voice fading with the wind. She pulls her collar tighter around her as she listens to her parents sigh in relief on the other end of the line."Stephanie, our health has been deteriorating over the past few years, and all we want is for you to settle down and be happy. We're glad that you've finally seen the light. When you're back, we'll ask Laura to schedule some suitable men for you."Stephanie's gaze flickers when she hears that her parents are already starting to prepare for her return. She's a little dazed. After chatting for a while longer, she hangs up.She turns back to look at her current place of residence. Then, she heads to her room and starts packing her things.