Chapter 9 – Gifts, Fights, and Deina
Each morning, I left the house with my makeup done, no burdens on my shoulders—just the hope of a bright future. I was young, I was beautiful, and I was determined to succeed. People at work noticed me—my energy, my dedication, my grace. Some even called me "princess."
And you—Chris—were part of this perfect chapter. Our chats, our laughter, our connection—it all felt magical.
For our third date, I decided to buy you a gift. A white t-shirt. It wasn't anything designer, but it was stylish and perfect for everyday wear. Every time I saw a nice shirt, I'd think, "I'll get that one for him next time."
You always paid when we went out—for meals, for fun—so I wanted to give something back. Perfumes, shirts… I started buying little things for you. I kept the gifts in my office, waiting for the right time to give them.
But work wasn't always easy. Sometimes, due to mistakes—mine or others'—there were financial penalties, and our salaries would get cut. They said we needed to be more careful.
The truth is: your team matters. One broken piece can bring the whole system down. For months, I struggled because of one such colleague—until she was finally gone.
After that? I maybe got penalized once a year. I stayed at that job for seven years.
Let's call that broken gear "Deina." She was part of our 5–6 person office team. I thought she was my friend. We'd chat during lunch breaks. She was a bit overweight and trying to diet, and I encouraged her with good intentions. I always tried to help people—too much, perhaps.
Looking back now, I realize I was too trusting. Today, my circle is small—just a few true people—but that's enough.
The workdays were flying by. I was seeing you often, and everything felt amazing. That second man, the one who kept chatting with me online, was still around—but harmless. He only made small talk, and I gave short, neutral replies.
Deina eventually got fired. But strangely, we kept in touch. Why? I don't know. Maybe God sends certain people into our lives to make us stronger.
By now, winter had arrived—and passed. You and I weren't meeting as often anymore. I was running out of lies to tell my family.
Even with the distance, life still felt beautiful with you in it.
My dearest Chris, my love…
Life was still beautiful with you.
Did you receive the gifts I gave you?
I gave you my gifts—the perfume, the t-shirt. And then, the day finally came when I visited your house. I still remember the excitement. No one else was home. We held each other for hours. Just inhaling your scent was enough. That warm, comforting scent—I could breathe it in forever.
I didn't want to leave. That's how we finished our fifth month together.
And that spring… I introduced you to Deina.