On her wedding day, Sophie had received the devastating news of Mr. David's sudden passing—and with it, word that the orphanage was sinking into a financial crisis. Sera had begged her desperately for help, asking for whatever money Sophie could give. Sophie had promised, with steady assurance, that she would take care of everything.
But after that day, fate had not allowed her to return as quickly as she wished. Conflicts and obligations held her back, and so the years slipped by. She did all she could from afar, sending funds and letters, but her heart longed to go back.
Now, after four long years, the moment had finally come.
As the carriage stopped, Sophie stepped down and walked toward the familiar gate of the orphanage. A gentle spring breeze brushed against her rosy cheeks, carrying with it the faint scent of blossoms. Her chest tightened with memory and longing.
Without hesitation, she crossed the yard and entered the building she had once called home. Standing before the director's old office door, she raised her hand and knocked softly.
"Come in," Sera's voice called from within.
Sophie opened the door slowly.
"You sure took a long time to come," Sera said, her tone soft. She gestured toward a chair. "Sit here."
Sophie shook her head. "No… I will leave after seeing the grave."
Sera studied her for a moment, then nodded. "Very well. Let's go."
Together, they walked through the quiet grounds until they came upon an old grave. The tombstone was weathered with time, yet carefully tended. Fresh flowers surrounded it, while tiny wild weeds swayed gently in the spring breeze.
Sophie drew in a deep breath, then stepped forward and laid a bouquet of dandelions upon the stone. Slowly, she lowered herself to sit beside it.
"I'm sorry, Mr. David," she whispered. "I came too late. Even now, a part of me cannot believe you're gone. But no matter where I am, I will always return to you."
Her voice wavered, but her gaze remained steady. After a long silence, she rose to her feet and looked one last time at the grave.
Just as they turned to leave, a butterfly with wings of shimmering blue landed lightly on the tombstone. For a brief, breathless moment, it lingered and then it vanished into the sky, as though offering its final farewell.