"Samantha"

After opening the door, I saw that the entire room was lit by small lamps scattered throughout. From the ceiling, there was a sea of transparent, pearlescent balloons filled with helium. Each one hung with a white ribbon, and at the end was a variety of photos of Heitor and me, notes with apologies or romantic declarations, or red hearts on cardboard. I went through each message and each photo of a happy moment we'd shared, and there were many.

I arrived at the living room with tears already streaming down my face, and when I looked up, I saw Heitor standing there, in that room where we'd watched the sunrise and where our plush rugs and colorful pillows still stood. He was simply standing there, hands in his pockets and looking anxious. The ceiling of the living room was also covered in balloons with photos, messages, and hearts. And the same small lamps gave the room a cozy glow. On the side table next to the cushions were wine, cheeses, fruits, and chocolates. Around the