Maya weaved her way through the throng, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of her impending wedding. She felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, a whirlwind of emotions she couldn't quite settle. Just as she was about to reach the bar, she collided with someone, almost dropping her drink.
"Maya? Is that really you?" Ethan asked, his voice laced with surprise and nostalgia.
Maya felt her heart skip a beat. "Ethan, it's been ages! What are you doing here?"
Ethan leaned back, a smile playing on his lips. "I could ask you the same thing. I thought you'd be busy with wedding preparations."
Maya shrugged, a hint of guilt shadowing her features. "I needed a breather, I guess. Things have been... a bit overwhelming."
Maya found herself laughing, something she hadn't done freely in weeks. Ethan's stories and easy charm were a comforting balm to her frazzled nerves. She realized how much she had missed this, missed him.
Ethan reached across the table, his hand brushing against hers. "Maya, have you ever thought about us? I mean, what if things were different?"
Maya hesitated, her heart caught in a tumultuous dance between duty and desire. "Ethan, I..." she began, but her words faltered, lost in the whirlwind of her thoughts.
Maya stood, her decision weighing heavily on her shoulders. "I have to go," she said softly, her voice tinged with regret.
Ethan nodded, understanding in his eyes. "Take care, Maya. And, congratulations."
Maya knew now where her heart truly lay, and as she headed home, the dawn of a new chapter awaited her. She was ready to embrace it, with all its uncertainties and promises.
