Chapter 18

Frederick put down his hand dejectedly and returned to the place where he had once lived with Gabrielle. The house had been completely renovated and was much better than it had been back then. Following his memories, Frederick made his way to the locust tree in the backyard. The swing on the tree was worn out, and upon the slightest touch, it shed a shower of loose debris. Frederick stared blankly at the swing, recalling about his time with Gabrielle. This small, even dilapidated house was where he had spent the darkest period of his life. The walls of the yard couldn’t block out the gossip, curses, insults, and even mocking voices from outside, which constantly seeped into his ears. Frederick had come close to breaking down several times, but each time, Gabrielle would place her hand on his ear and tell him, “Frederick, it’s okay. I’ll always be by your side.” They had been together for ten years, and no matter when he turned around, he could always see Gabrielle behind him. A