Chapter21 I trudged home , dead tired , and for the first time , I really looked at the place I had called home for seven years . Every corner was filled with Antonios and my sweet memories . All those perfect moments now felt like a million knives piercing my heart . I pulled out a huge cardboard box and stayed up all night packing away those memories . The matching couples slippers , the matching couples mugs , the keychains that could find each other within 10 meters , and a whole box of pictures of us … These things were my lifeline when I was feeling insecure , proof that Antonio and I were a real couple . Yet , they were just trash now . Antonio hadnt been home for two weeks . During that time , I had finished my design work and pretty much cleaned out the house I got rid of all the furniture I had bought , and now the place was back to how it was when I first moved in . The black and white decor was simple , like one could see every corner from the front door . The night before I was set to leave , I figured I should talk things through with Antonio , so I gave him a call . He just kept hanging up on me . After a bit , he texted me , If you havent realized your mistake , if youre not going to apologize to Alicia for real , then theres no need to talk . With a wry smile , I thought if that was the case , maybe it was better if we didnt talk . I had a flight to catch the next morning , so I grabbed my suitcase and headed out the door . This house was once so cozy and comforting , but now , as I walked out , all I felt was a weight lifted off my shoulders . Just before I got on the plane , my phone blew up with birthday messages . They sent their best wishes for a great future . Some prayed for my safety and happiness , and others hoped for perfect love and a good partner . After replying to them one by one , I switched off my phone . As the plane took off , I made a silent promise to myself , Ill find my happiness ! With all these good wishes , I was sure I would find my Mr. The plane was flying overseas . The sun was shining brightly outside , and the sky was a stunning shade of blue . I was fascinated , watching the changing scenes outside the window . Clouds were rolling by , and now and then , there was a burst of red light catching my eye . A sudden burst of creativity hit me , and I quickly started sketching . By the time I was done , night had fallen outside . It was surreal , like I had traveled through time . I left on the 27th in the morning and arrived on the 26th at night . With this amazing feeling , I stepped out of the airport . There , I saw my parents and Freddy , all smiles , waving at me . I rushed over with my luggage , hugged my mom , and basked in the warmth I had missed for so long . Years ago , I followed my heart and went against my parents wishes to study in Riverwick . Despite reluctance , they let me go . Who would have thought that I left for eight years , only coming back for a brief Christmas visit ? They missed me terribly . It was my fault . Feeling the urge to cry , I quickly pulled away from my mom . Mom , Im starving . With a tender smile , she caressed my face , affection written all over her face . Lets go home . Ill make your favorite pasta . I nodded .