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The Decade of Silence
The next ten years were the longest of their lives. Elena thrived in the city, studying, making new friends, and experiencing life in ways she had never imagined. Yet, no matter how much she achieved, there was always an empty space in her heart where Thomas used to be. She never spoke of him to anyone, never sent a letter, and never looked back at the village. It was a silent promise she had made.
Thomas, on the other hand, remained in the village, though his world felt smaller and smaller with each passing year. He continued his work as an artist, but his heart was no longer in his craft. His thoughts were consumed by Elena, by their shared memories, and by the hope that she would return. He avoided social gatherings and never spoke of her to anyone. The years seemed to stretch on forever, each day filled with the quiet ache of longing.
And so, the decade passed—slowly, painfully, but inevitably.