Yesterday Without Time in the amazing life of Kali

Chapter 20. Whispers of the Heart

In the vibrant town of Silverwood, where the sun painted the sky in hues of gold and lavender, life thrived beneath the watchful gaze of the Great Oak, a tree that had stood for centuries in the town square, its roots entwined with the very essence of the town. The townsfolk often spoke of the Oak as a guardian, a keeper of secrets and dreams. The spirit of the tree sparkled like the stars that twinkled above at night. drawing them into worlds filled with magic and wonder. Yet, every beautiful town does have its shadows just like every town has its shadows. Eventually some people go through a hard time that weighs them down in the shadows. Kali had recently faced a tragedy that shook her to her core a miscarriage that left her feeling vulnerable and lost. She had confided in her father, Officer Aaron Evens, who had listened with a heavy heart, wishing to shield her from the pain that life sometimes bestowed as he got resdy for work and headed Out rhe door he gave him daughter a hug and told her to try and rest. Meanwhile at the local Police station Officer Cole Lucas, a dedicated cop with a heart of gold, found himself at the precinct, sorting through paperwork. He was known for his kindness, often going out of his way to help those in need. That day, as he filed away reports, he overheard a conversation between Officer Aaron Evans and Officer Eric Tate. “Did you hear about Kali?” Aaron’s voice was laced with concern. “She had a miscarriage last night. Alonso, that guy she was seeing, didn’t even care. He was more interested in getting drunk.” Cole’s heart sank at the news. He had always admired Kali from afar, captivated by her talent and the warmth she exuded. He knew about Alonso, the man who had brought joy to Kali’s life, had turned out to be a source of pain instead. The thought of her suffering struck a chord deep within him. He remembered his own sister, Emily, who had faced her own battles. He wished someone had been there for her when she needed it most. After finishing his shift, Cole decided he couldn’t just let Kali face this alone. He made his way to the local market, his mind racing with ideas of what to bring her. He wandered through the aisles, imagining what might bring a smile to her face. He picked up a bouquet of sunflowers, their bright yellow petals reminiscent of sunshine. He thought of her love for art and selected a set of vibrant paints and brushes, believing that creating something beautiful might help her heal. He grabbed her a book by his favorite author, he thought it may help take her mind off things. Lastly, he grabbed a box of her favorite chocolates, a sweet treat to brighten her spirits. With his arms full of gifts, Cole made his way to Kali’s house, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and anxiety. He hoped she would appreciate the gesture, but more importantly, he wanted her to know she wasn’t alone. As he approached her door, he took a deep breath and knocked softly. Kali opened the door, her eyes widening in surprise. She was dressed in a cozy sweater, her hair pulled back in a messy bun, and for a moment, Cole saw the vulnerability etched across her face. But then, as she caught sight of the sunflowers and the other gifts, a smile broke through her sadness. “Cole! What are you doing here?” she exclaimed, stepping aside to let him in.“I heard about what happened,” he said gently, placing the flowers on her kitchen table. “I thought you might like these.” Her expression softened as she took in the bright blooms. “They’re beautiful. Thank you.” She picked them up, inhaling their sweet scent, and for a brief moment, it seemed the weight of her sorrow lifted just a little. “I also brought some paints,” Cole continued, setting the art supplies down next to the flowers. “I thought maybe you could use them to express how you’re feeling.” Kali’s eyes sparkled with appreciation. “You know me too well,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I haven’t painted in ages.” “ i also got you a book from my favorite author” Cole continued as he sat A book on the table “ i thought it may help you take your mind off things” Cole went on “And of course, I couldn’t forget the chocolates,” he added, pulling the box from under his arm. “A little sweetness to help with the bitterness.” She laughed softly, the sound like music to his ears. “You really didn’t have to do all this, Cole. But I’m so glad you did.” As they settled into her cozy living room, the atmosphere shifted. Kali shared stories of her recent performances, her dreams, and her fears. Cole listened intently, his heart swelling with empathy. He could see the flicker of her spirit beneath the surface, fighting to shine through the darkness. “Alonso was supposed to be there for me,” she admitted, her voice trembling. “But instead, he chose to drown his sorrows in alcohol. I feel so alone.” Cole’s heart ached for her. “You’re not alone, Kali. You have people who care about you. I care about you.”

Kali looked at him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Thank you, Cole. It means a lot to hear that. I’ve been feeling so lost, and I didn’t know how to reach out.” “Sometimes, it’s hard to ask for help,” he replied, his voice steady. “But you don’t have to go through this alone. I’m here for you, whatever you need.” As the evening wore on, they talked and laughed, the weight of Kali’s sorrow slowly lifting with each shared moment. They reminisced about their childhoods, their dreams, and the whimsical tales of Willowbrook. The Great Oak outside swayed gently in the breeze, as if listening to their laughter, its branches dancing in the twilight. Kali felt a warmth in her heart that she hadn’t experienced in a long time. Cole’s kindness wrapped around her like a comforting blanket, easing the chill of her grief. She realized that perhaps this was the beginning of a new chapter, one where she could find solace and strength in unexpected places. As the stars began to twinkle above, casting a silvery glow through her window, Kali leaned back on her couch, feeling a sense of peace she hadn’t known in days. “You know, I think I might just paint tonight,” she said, her voice filled with newfound determination. Cole smiled, his heart light. “I’d love to see what you create. Just remember, whatever you paint comes from your heart, and that’s what makes it beautiful.” With a spark of inspiration ignited within her, Kali grabbed her brushes and paints, ready to pour her emotions onto the canvas. And as she began to create, Cole sat nearby, his presence a steady reminder that even in the darkest of times, there was always a flicker of hope waiting to be found.